In the late 19th century, San Francisco witnessed a surge in anti-Chinese sentiment, fueled by economic instability, labor unrest, and xenophobia. The year 1877 marked a pivotal moment in this history, as the city grappled with the aftermath of the Panic of 1873 and the rise of the Workingmen’s Party, led by the charismatic Denis Kearney.
In This Article
Key Points
- The rise of anti-Chinese sentiment amidst economic turmoil and labor unrest.
- The formation and impact of the Workingmen’s Party led by Denis Kearney.
- Legislative outcomes, including the Chinese Exclusion Act, as a response to the growing anti-Chinese movement.
The Socio-Economic Context of 1877 San Francisco
San Francisco in 1877 was a city reeling from the effects of the Panic of 1873, a severe economic downturn that led to widespread unemployment and social unrest. Chinese immigrants, who had come to the United States in search of opportunity and had played a crucial role in the construction of the Central Pacific Railroad and the mining industry, found themselves the target of growing hostility.
The labor market was a key point of contention, with many white workers viewing Chinese immigrants as a threat to their livelihoods. The unemployment protests of 1877 further exacerbated tensions, as disgruntled workers sought to blame Chinese immigrants for their economic woes.
The Rise of Anti-Chinese Organizations
As anti-Chinese sentiment grew, various organizations emerged to champion the cause of white workers and push for the exclusion of Chinese immigrants. The Anti-Coolies Association and the Supreme Order of the Caucasians were two such groups, which sought to mobilize public opinion against the Chinese and pressure politicians to take action.
Labor unions also played a significant role in amplifying anti-Chinese sentiment, viewing Chinese workers as a threat to their bargaining power and wages. The Chinese Six Companies, a group of Chinese merchants and community leaders, worked to defend the rights of Chinese immigrants and counter the growing tide of hostility.
Denis Kearney and the Workingmen’s Party
Denis Kearney, an Irish-born labor activist, emerged as a key figure in the anti-Chinese movement. Kearney founded the Workingmen’s Party in 1877, which quickly gained a following among white workers who felt threatened by Chinese immigration.
The party’s ideology was rooted in a combination of anti-Chinese sentiment, populism, and a critique of the economic elite. Kearney’s fiery rhetoric and calls for the expulsion of Chinese immigrants struck a chord with many San Franciscans, and the party became a powerful force in local and state politics.
Legislative and Social Responses to Anti-Chinese Sentiment
The growing anti-Chinese movement culminated in the passage of the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which prohibited the immigration of Chinese laborers for a period of ten years. The act was a direct response to the demands of groups like the Workingmen’s Party and marked a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy.
At the local level, San Francisco passed a series of ordinances targeting Chinese immigrants, such as the Queue Ordinance, which required the cutting of Chinese men’s traditional long braids. These laws, along with the broader climate of hostility, made life increasingly difficult for Chinese immigrants in the city.
The Civil Rights Act of 1870 and the Burlingame Treaty, which had previously granted Chinese immigrants certain protections and rights, proved ineffective in the face of growing anti-Chinese sentiment.
Life in Chinatown: A Glimpse into the Chinese Immigrant Experience
Despite the challenges they faced, Chinese immigrants in San Francisco’s Chinatown worked to build a vibrant community and maintain their cultural traditions. Chinese merchants played a key role in this process, establishing businesses and social organizations that catered to the needs of the community.
The Chinese community also made significant contributions to San Francisco’s diversity and cultural life, introducing new foods, customs, and art forms to the city. However, life in Chinatown was far from easy, as residents grappled with overcrowding, discrimination, and the constant threat of violence.
The National and International Context
The anti-Chinese movement in San Francisco was part of a broader pattern of anti-Asian sentiment in the United States during the 19th century. Other cities and states, particularly in the West, also witnessed outbreaks of violence and discrimination against Chinese immigrants.
The Gilded Age politics of the era, characterized by corruption, patronage, and nativism, contributed to the hostile climate faced by Chinese immigrants. The Burlingame Treaty, which had initially encouraged Chinese immigration, came under increasing pressure as anti-Chinese sentiment grew.
FAQ
How did the Panic of 1873 contribute to anti-Chinese sentiment in San Francisco?
The Panic of 1873 led to widespread unemployment and economic instability in San Francisco, which fueled resentment towards Chinese immigrants who were seen as competitors for scarce jobs.
What was the role of the Workingmen’s Party in the anti-Chinese movement?
The Workingmen’s Party, led by Denis Kearney, was a key force in mobilizing anti-Chinese sentiment in San Francisco. The party’s ideology combined populism, nativism, and a critique of the economic elite, and it played a significant role in pushing for the Chinese Exclusion Act.
How did the Chinese Exclusion Act affect Chinese immigrants and their communities?
The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 prohibited the immigration of Chinese laborers for a period of ten years, making it the first significant law restricting immigration to the United States. The act had a devastating impact on Chinese communities, separating families and contributing to a climate of fear and hostility.
What were the main activities of the Anti-Coolies Association and the Supreme Order of the Caucasians?
The Anti-Coolies Association and the Supreme Order of the Caucasians were two prominent anti-Chinese organizations in San Francisco. These groups sought to mobilize public opinion against Chinese immigrants, pressure politicians to take action, and advocate for the exclusion of Chinese laborers.
How did Chinese immigrants contribute to the economy and culture of 19th-century San Francisco?
Chinese immigrants played a crucial role in the development of San Francisco’s economy, particularly in the construction of the Central Pacific Railroad and the mining industry. They also introduced new foods, customs, and art forms to the city, contributing to its cultural diversity.
