Question

Chinese Exclusion Act (1882)
“The coming of Chinese laborers… be… suspended.”
Source: Chinese Exclusion Act (1882).pdf
Questions:
Why were Chinese laborers targeted?
What economic fears are reflected?
How does this complicate the idea of opportunity?

use simple words and 3 sentences as a whole

Answer 1

Chinese laborers were targeted because many white workers and politicians blamed them for taking jobs and because of racial prejudice and fear of cultural differences. People feared Chinese workers would lower wages, take jobs away, and hurt the economy by accepting much cheaper pay. This shows the idea of America as a place of equal opportunity was limited, since laws kept some people out and stopped them from trying to better their lives because of race and economic fear.