20th century

People were brought over from British colonies in the Caribbean to work in local munitions factories during the Second World War, and more arrived after the war ended to help rebuild the area. This led to Handsworth becoming a centre for the African-Caribbean community.

In later years, many people from India - particularly Sikhs from the Punjab - settled in Handsworth.

Handsworth Carnival began as a Caribbean-themed event in Handsworth Park in 1984. It is held every two years and is now called Birmingham Carnival, with the festival part of the event taking place in Perry Park since 1999.

Among the famous people from Handsworth are musicians Joan Armatrading, Jaki Graham, Apache Indian, Pato Banton, Ruby Turner and Steve Winwood.