Featured image photo by Miko Guziuk on Unsplash
Following the rise of Chinese Immigration to the United States during California’s gold rush years, congress passed the Chinese Exclusion Act, restricting Chinese immigrants from entering the United States. Despite the fact that Chinese American’s composed only 0.002 percent of the nation’s population during this time, President Chestur A. Arthur signed the Exclusion Act into legislation on May 6, 1882, regarding Chinese immigrants as unqualified for naturalization.
Photo 1:
This newspaper published in 1882, includes an illustration depicting a Chinese man being prevented passage into the United States (Golden Gate of Liberty). A sign next to him reads, “Notice – communist, nihilist, socialist, Fenian & hoodlum welcome but no admittance to Chinamen”.
Does this discriminatory act clash with any of the United States constitutional elements?
A completely separate and ironic feature of the newspaper article is an advertisement for curing opium addiction. “Morphine Habit cured in 10 to 20 days. The only known and sure remedy.”
The Opium Wars (1839-42, 1856-60), as well as western power’s leverage to increase the distribution of opium in China were the largest contributing factors for Chinese immigration into the United States during this era. This shines light on the vulnerability of Chinese immigrants and the lack of empathy that they received from their American peers.
Photo 2:
What differences do you think Chinese immigrants faced in the second half of the 19th century compared to European immigrants?
During this era, Chinese immigrants contributed astronomical amounts of effort towards the development of the United States. This includes building the Western half of the Transcontinental railroad, building levees in the Sacramento River Delta, developing and cultivating much of the Western US farmland, among other tasks.
The photo, “Laborers and Rocks” shows Chinese laborers at work developing a tunnel. A frequent function of railroad development involved breaking up large pieces of rock with explosives then hauling out debris using primitive tools.
Photo 3:
How did US citizens perceive Chinese immigrants in the 1870s? What does this say about the United States’ portrayal of asian immigration?
The United States advocated the distribution of Opium in China which persuaded Chinese people to find opportunity elsewhere. Chinese immigrants were exploited for cheap labor and then prevented asylum in the US’ with the Chinese Exclusion act of 1882. What does this say about the United States and its values during this time?
Jacob, the “allow comments” tab under the “Discussion” setting was unchecked. I fixed that, and can now comment.
Together with Matt’s post, the Chinese immigration to the US is getting some interesting coverage this week.
First off, I really like your featured image – a contemporary image with powerful symbolism acts as a reminder of the history reflected in your other images. The page from Leslie’s is fascinating both for the criticism in the cartoon and the juxtaposition of the opium cure.
The hypocrisy of Chinese exclusion runs as a powerful undercurrent to your images of the realities of exploited Chinese labor in the US.
A well-crafted selection of images and closer looks.