Final answer:
Chinese immigrants came to the U.S in the 19th century, attracted by opportunities like the Gold Rush and railroad construction. They faced significant discrimination, culminating in the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 which barred their immigration and citizenship. Post-1965 legislation allowed Chinese immigration to resume, resulting in family reunifications.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Chinese immigrants began their journey to the United States primarily during the mid-nineteenth century, fueled by the allure of the Gold Rush and job opportunities like constructing the Transcontinental Railroad. These men endured grueling work conditions and underpayment. Their main motive was to send earnings back home to their families in China. The concept of a "credit-ticket" system facilitated their migration, incurring debt that would be worked off over time. A significant gender imbalance ensued, with less than 5% of the Chinese population in the U.S being female. The initial lack of intention to settle permanently led to strong attachment to Chinese language and customs.
Discrimination was rampant, extending from labor competition fears to racial prejudice, culminating in the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 which halted Chinese immigration and restricted citizenship rights. Angel Island in San Francisco Bay served as a key immigration station for Asian newcomers, paralleling the role of Ellis Island for Europeans. Moreover, restrictive laws across states barred Chinese from various civic engagements and property ownership, illustrating the severe backlash against Asian communities.
Despite such hostilities, these immigrants contributed significantly to the infrastructure and economy of the American West. The Chinese diaspora also extended to other regions globally, seeking work in diverse industries. Over time, the narrative evolved, with Chinese immigration resuming post-1965 due to changes in immigration laws, leading to the reuniting of many Chinese families in the United States.