The Chinese in California, 1850-1925 illustrates nineteenth and
early twentieth century Chinese immigration to California
through about 8,000 images and pages of primary source
materials. Included are photographs, original art, cartoons and
other illustrations; letters, excerpts from diaries, business
records, and legal documents; as well as pamphlets, broadsides,
speeches, sheet music, and other printed matter. These documents
describe the experiences of Chinese immigrants in California,
including the nature of inter-ethnic tensions. They also
document the specific contributions of Chinese immigrants to
commerce and business, architecture and art, agriculture and
other industries, and cultural and social life in California.
Chinatown in San Francisco receives special treatment as the
oldest and largest community of Chinese in the United States.
Also included is documentation of smaller Chinese communities
throughout California, as well as material reflecting on the
experiences of individuals. Although necess