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Why do you think the United States thought it was okay to extend their sphere of influence into China, yet Chinese immigrants were prohibited from entering the U.S.?

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Answer:

The extension of the United States' sphere of influence into China was driven by economic and geopolitical interests, as well as a desire to expand American power and influence in the region. The U.S. saw China as a valuable market for American goods and a source of raw materials, and sought to maintain access to these resources by establishing a presence in China. Additionally, the U.S. sought to prevent other European powers from gaining too much influence in China, which could threaten American economic and strategic interests.

On the other hand, Chinese immigrants were prohibited from entering the U.S. due to a combination of economic and cultural factors, as well as racial prejudice. Many Americans viewed Chinese immigrants as a threat to their economic well-being, particularly in the western U.S. where Chinese immigrants had become established in industries such as mining and agriculture. Additionally, there was a perception that Chinese immigrants were culturally and racially different from white Americans, which fueled prejudice and discrimination against them.

Overall, the extension of U.S. influence into China and the exclusion of Chinese immigrants from the U.S. can be seen as two sides of the same coin - driven by different motivations but both reflecting a desire to protect American economic and strategic interests. However, it is important to recognize that the exclusion of Chinese immigrants from the U.S. was unjust and discriminatory, and that this policy had negative consequences for Chinese Americans and their families.

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