The Legacies of Chinese Exclusion
Subject
- History
- Social Studies
Grade
6–12Language
English — USPublished
Overview
About This Mini-Lesson
How has the history of Chinese exclusion shaped enduring attitudes about difference, citizenship, and American identity? May 2018 marks the 136th anniversary of the Chinese Exclusion Act, the first law to restrict US immigration on the basis of race. The activities below engage students in an exploration of the historical context and consequences of the 1882 legislation, drawing connections between the exclusion era and today. They also invite students to analyze a letter of protest from Chinese immigrant Saum Song Bo and consider how immigrants themselves played a role in shaping notions of democracy and citizenship within a polity that excluded them.
Preparing to Teach
A Note to Teachers
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