The Chinese Experience in 19th/20th Century Canada

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, many different types of immigrants entered Canada, each with their own hardships and experiences, often facing harsh immigration policies or racism. One group that was severely affected were Chinese immigrants and labourers, looking to move to or get a job in Canada. Although 19th and 20th century Chinese immigrants were both mistreated by the Canadian government, their experiences were very different. In the 19th century, the Canadian government tricked Chinese labourers into being used for cheap and dangerous work. In the 20th century, Chinese immigrants faced many laws that were implemented specifically to keep them from entering the country. Despite these different experiences, a common hardship was the racism Chinese people received from Canadian citizens; in the form of riots, Anti-Chinese ideals, and other mistreatment. 19th and 20th century Chinese immigrants faced different, yet equally brutal, forms of racism from the Canadian government, while facing the same forms of racism from Canadian people. 
The Chinese Experience in 19th/20th Century Canada

Patsy Ginou

Grade 10

Ursula Franklin Academy
Toronto, Ontario

I chose this question because it seemed like the most open-ended out of the available topics.

Related Essays

  • Endurance during Times of Discrimination

    Endurance during Times of Discrimination

    Lauren MacDonald

    Toronto, Ontario

    I chose this question as I was interested in learning more about immigration laws in Canada and the struggles many faced in coming here.

  • A Wavering Welcome

    A Wavering Welcome

    Miriam Hohl

    Kelowna, British Columbia

    I thought this question might give insight into how refugees and immigrants have been treated and provide context for issues today.

 
View all essays