Notes
Lesson 2: Recruitment and Journey of Chinese Laborers
Do Now Activity
View recruitment posters used to attract Chinese laborers. What do they often have in common? What do they value/emphasize. Think: Why do you think Chinese workers were recruited for the railroad? What motives did America have (politically, socially, economically, etc.)?
Learning Objective
Learn about the recruitment, journey, and initial experiences of Chinese laborers.
Recruitment
Objective: explain how labor contractors in China, often with the promise of high wages and better living conditions, recruited Chinese workers. Discuss the role of the Six Companies (Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association) in facilitating labor migration.
Labor contractors in China played a crucial role in recruiting workers for the Transcontinental Railroad. These contractors, often connected with powerful business and community organizations, promised high wages and better living conditions to entice Chinese men to leave their homeland. The allure of earning significantly more money than they could in China was a strong motivator, especially for those from impoverished regions. The recruiters highlighted opportunities for steady employment and the possibility of returning home with substantial savings.
A photograph including Chinese immigrants who worked on the railroad. From Boise State University.
The Six Companies, formally known as the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, were pivotal in facilitating this labor migration. Based in San Francisco, these organizations provided support and representation for Chinese immigrants. They helped negotiate labor contracts, arranged for transportation, and provided a network of support upon arrival. The Six Companies ensured that new arrivals had some protection and guidance, mitigating the risks associated with such a significant move.
Journey
Objective: Describe the arduous voyage from China to America. Many workers traveled from ports like Hong Kong, often facing long and dangerous sea voyages.
An image that depicts the overcrowded ship Chinese immigrants had to take to arrive to America. From the Hungtington.
The journey from China to America was long and perilous. Workers typically departed from ports such as Hong Kong, embarking on voyages that could last several weeks. The conditions on these ships were often cramped and unsanitary, with many travelers facing the threat of disease and malnutrition. Despite the dangers, the promise of better opportunities drove thousands to endure the hardships of the voyage.
Upon arriving in America, these workers disembarked in ports along the West Coast, with San Francisco being a primary destination. The initial experience of entering a new and foreign land was daunting, marked by language barriers and cultural differences.
Initial Experiences
Objective: Discuss the first impressions of Chinese workers upon arriving in America, the initial jobs they took, and their settlements, particularly in California.
Upon arrival, Chinese workers often took on various labor-intensive jobs, not immediately working on the railroad. Many found employment in agriculture, mining, and small businesses within Chinatowns, which provided a sense of community and familiarity.
As the need for labor on the Transcontinental Railroad grew, many of these workers transitioned to railroad construction jobs. Settlements, particularly in California, were characterized by their communal living arrangements. Chinatown communities became hubs where new immigrants could find shelter, food, and work opportunities. These settlements also served as cultural and social centers, preserving Chinese traditions and providing a support network amidst the challenges of life in America.
The first impressions of Chinese workers in America were mixed. While they were hopeful about the opportunities, they also faced significant challenges, including racial discrimination and harsh working conditions. Despite these obstacles, the resilience and hard work of Chinese laborers became a cornerstone in the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad, leaving a lasting impact on American history.
Activity
Role-Play! Split into groups and have each person assume the roles of Chinese laborers, labor contractors, and railroad officials. Conduct a role-play scenario where they discuss terms of employment, the journey, and initial settlement experiences. After completing, have a discussion. Look back on each of your actions (which represented your group). How did you each behave? What did you learn from this experience and role-playing? What are big group takeaways? Share thoughts and discuss with one another. Come up with 3 big ideas. For homework, write a diary entry from the perspective of a Chinese laborer describing their journey to America.
