"This elegantly written book develops a compelling argument about the role of migrations in the history of mankind. An eminent historical demographer, Livi-Bacci is able to bring the demographic perspective to bear on the highly complex phenomenon of migration - whether in the context of Ancient times or in today’s context of globalization, where immigration has become a highly controversial and politicized issue. A compelling read for a general audience wishing to understand the 'migration problem' and its relevance for today’s public policy."Bruno Ramirez, Université de Montréal"The appearance of any book by demographic historian Massimo Livi-Bacci is cause for celebration and one on migration especially welcome. Migration, more than most issues, is best understood in the context of long-term patterns. This book, drawing on research in several languages, deftly puts the European experience of both emigration and immigration into long-term historical perspective, distilling six centuries into fewer than 100 pages."J.R. McNeill, Georgetown University