Authors:

Atanu Mohapatra, Prabhat Kumar

Abstract:

As early as 2000 years before, Chinese ethnic groups migrated and subsequently created diasporic communities in other countries. Moreover, these Chinese immigrants not only preserved but also represented a unique single identity of “Chineseness” far away from their home land despite facing various difficulties. This article tries to review the early phases of Chinese migration to the USA and their characteristics which started in 1848 after the famous Gold Rush of California. It also studies the racial discrimination, identity issues and legal exclusion from native Whites and American authorities which early Chinese immigrants faced during their struggle for getting recognition, impartial treatment and achieving citizenship in the USA. This article deals with how the Chinatown has become an essential part of this struggle against the discrimination, as well as a reflection of solidarity, cultural cohesion and creation of identity. Chinatown also emerged as a place for social ethnic and commercial activities catering the needs of Chinese in the United States. 

Keywords:

Chinese Immigrants, Chinese in America, Chinatown, Issues of Racism and Identity   

Vol & Issue:

VOL.13, ISSUE No.4, December 2021