Read the passage. Is this Chinese immigration desirable? I think not; and, contrary to the expressed opinions of many of the public prints throughout the country, contend that it ought not to be encouraged. It is not desirable, because it is not useful; or, if useful at all, it is so only to themselves—not to us. No reciprocal or mutual benefits are conferred. In what capacity do they contribute to the advancement of American interests? Are they engaged in any thing that adds to the general wealth and importance of the country? Will they discard their clannish prepossessions, assimilate with us, buy of us, and respect us? . . . . But the Chinese are more objectionable than other foreigners, because they refuse to have dealing or intercourse with us; consequently, there is no chance of making any thing of them, either in the way of trade or labor. They are ready to take all they can get from us, but are not willing to give any thing in return. They did not aid in the acquisition or settlement of California, and they do not intend to make it their future home. They will not become permanent citizens, nor identify their lives and interests with the country. They neither build nor buy, nor invest capital in any way that conduces to the advantage of any one but themselves.

–The Land of Gold,
Hinton Helper,
1855

Americans’ negative sentiments toward Chinese immigrants in California throughout the late nineteenth century led to the passage of the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882. The Chinese Exclusion Act
A. barred children born in America to Chinese immigrants from claiming American citizenship.
B. was a product of resentment toward Chinese immigrants for filling low-paying jobs during the depression of the 1870s.
C. successfully reduced Chinese legal and illegal immigration to a trickle during the 1880s and 1890s.
D. required Chinese immigrants to register with the government for a probationary period of five years following arrival.
Mark this and return