The condition that enabled the virtual enslavement of Asian Americans in the late 19th century is primarily:
- distinctions between the rights of citizens and non-citizens
This distinction was significant because many Asian immigrants were categorized as non-citizens and were often denied basic rights and protections under the law. This lack of legal recognition and protection allowed for exploitative labor practices and discriminatory treatment. The other options also reflect issues faced by Asian Americans, but the distinction between citizen and non-citizen status was particularly crucial in facilitating their exploitation during that period.