Possible Explanations for the Locations and Concentrations of Ethnic Groups in Hamilton

Abstract

The purpose of the research is to observe and describe the ethnic composition of Hamilton, using 1986 census data. To identify salient spatial trends, two main types of analyses are employed: The Segregation Index and the Location Quotient. Elementary statistics, such as mean and percentages were also calculated. Eight ethnic groups and 88 census tracts were used. These techniques involved the use of 'ethnic origin' data, from Canada's 1986 census. This was the first enumeration that included multiple ethnic origins, previously only the single, paternal lineage was recorded. The reseach demonstrates that Hamilton's ethnic groups exhibit varing degrees of clustering. The city can therefore, be described as a cultural mosaic, with high concentrations of ethnic groups occurring throughout. Conclusions shall be reached as to the possible causes of the observed patterns and shall be related to the choices and contstraints of the particular ethnic groups involved.