Angel Island vs Ellis Island: Contrasting Immigrant Stations

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2. Angel Island is often called the “Ellis Island of the West,” but this is not accurate.  Major differences in the missions of the two immigrant stations. ◦ Ellis Island welcomed immigrants into the U.S. and the vast majority of those arriving were process and “landed” immediately. ◦ On Angel Island, many immigrants (mostly the Chinese) were NOT welcomed at all and were allowed in the country only after strife and struggle.

3. The Chinese were drawn to the U.S. for many reasons: Initially for the Gold Rush to California. Then, to work as inexpensive laborers on the transcontinental railroad. Then, to work in the mines of the west. They also came to escape dire living conditions under their government and later escape the Japanese invasion of China. 1. 2. 3. 4.

6.  Many American-born workers viewed the Chinese laborers as competition for jobs.  In the 1870’s an economic depression hit the U.S. which caused anti-Chinese sentiment to increase.

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11.  In response to public opinion, Congress passed exclusion laws that specifically targeted the Chinese.  Congress issued the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882. ◦ Banned entry to the U.S. for all Chinese except those who were U.S. citizens (born in U.S.), children of a U.S. citizen, or a spouse of a U.S. citizen. ◦ Also stated that students, teachers, merchants, tourists, and governmental officials were permitted.

12.  Many Chinese already living in the U.S. were deported.  This Act was extended another 10 years in 1892 and again in 1902, and wasn’t repealed until 1943.