Final answer:
The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 was passed by Congress due to fierce job competition in the west caused by a surplus of low-paid Chinese labor.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major reason for Congress passing the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 was fierce job competition in the west caused by a surplus of low-paid Chinese labor. The influx of Chinese immigrants had led to increased competition for jobs, particularly in industries such as mining and railroads. This resulted in growing resentment and hostility towards Chinese immigrants from the American labor force, leading Congress to pass the Chinese Exclusion Act.
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