Question

"What impact did Chinese Americans make on the Development of the West?

Why were their contributions previously ignored in history? Use at least 3
examples/evidence from today's activities!'

Answer 1

Chinese Americans made significant contributions to the development of the West, including their role in the transcontinental railroad, agriculture and mining, and business and commerce. Their contributions were previously ignored in history due to racism and discrimination, the Chinese Exclusion Acts, and historical bias.

Step-by-step explanation:

Impact of Chinese Americans on the Development of the West

Chinese Americans made significant contributions to the development of the West in various fields:

1. Transcontinental Railroad: Chinese workers played a crucial role in building the transcontinental railroad, connecting the East and West coasts of the United States. Their labor and expertise were instrumental in completing this monumental project.
2. Agriculture and Mining: Chinese immigrants contributed to the agricultural and mining industries in the West. They introduced new farming techniques and crops, boosting agricultural productivity, and played a vital role in mining activities, especially during the California Gold Rush.
3. Business and Commerce: Chinese Americans established various businesses, including laundries, restaurants, and stores, which significantly contributed to the economic development of the West. They played a vital role in introducing and popularizing Chinese cuisine and culture.

Why were their contributions previously ignored in history?

There are several reasons why the contributions of Chinese Americans were previously ignored in history:

• Racism and Discrimination: Chinese immigrants faced widespread racism and discrimination, leading to their exclusion from mainstream historical narratives.
• Exclusion Acts: The Chinese Exclusion Acts of the late 19th and early 20th centuries limited Chinese immigration and denied them citizenship rights, further marginalizing their contributions.
• Historical Bias: Historians and educators primarily focused on narratives that centered on European settlers and settlers from other regions, thereby overlooking the contributions of Chinese Americans.

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