Why were Chinese immigrants targeted by the Chinese exclusion act ?(2 points)

Answer 1

The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 specifically targeted Chinese immigrants for several reasons:

1. Economic Competition: Chinese immigrants were seen as a threat to American laborers, particularly in the Western states where they worked in gold mines, railroads, and agriculture. Many Americans believed that Chinese workers were willing to accept lower wages, which intensified resentment among domestic workers who feared for their jobs and economic stability.

2. Cultural Racism and Nationalism: The act was rooted in prevailing racial prejudice and xenophobia. Many Americans viewed Chinese immigrants as racially and culturally inferior. This perception fostered a climate of fear and hostility, leading to calls for exclusion based on the belief that Chinese individuals could not assimilate into American society.

These factors combined to create a legislative environment in which Chinese immigrants became the target of exclusionary policies.