Summary
The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 banned virtually all Chinese immigration to the United States. Supporters of the ban argued that Chinese immigrants threatened the livelihood of American workers by driving down wages and taking away jobs, and that their "peculiar" and "immoral" ways undermined American society. Opponents of the ban argued that Chinese immigrants were decent, hardworking people with the same right to come to the United States as anyone else, and that they would soon assimilate into American society. Was the Chinese Exclusion Act a necessary protection for American workers, or a racist policy singling out one group of immigrants?
This eBook examines the Chinese Exclusion Act and delves into the pro and con arguments that surrounded it. It includes a timeline, primary sources, a bibliography, and a "Learn More About" chapter with more information on the topic.