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The first major wave of Chinese immigrants arrived during the California Gold Rush It sparked the beginning of large-scale Asian immigration to the U.S., but also led to anti-Chinese sentiment. Key players were Chinese laborers, U.S. gold prospectors, and state officials. date: 1848-1855
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First federal law to ban immigration based on race/nationality. Severely restricted Chinese assimilation and set a precedent for racial exclusion in U.S. policy. Key Players were U.S. Congress, Chinese immigrants.
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Informal agreement between the U.S. and Japan to limit Japanese labor immigration. slowed Japanese immigration and contributed to discriminatory housing and employment practices. Key players were President Theodore Roosevelt and the Japanese government.
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The law severely restricted immigration from Asia. It reinforced white supremacy in immigration law and prevented Asian families from reuniting or assimilating. Key players were U.S. lawmakers and Asian immigrant communities.
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Over 120,000 Japanese Americans forcibly relocated to internment camps. Undermined assimilation by labeling citizens as threats based on ethnicity. Key Players were Japanese American citizens and President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Date: 1942-1945
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Allowed immigration and naturalization for Filipino and Indian nationals. Marked a small step toward inclusion and citizenship rights for Asian Americans. Key players were the U.S. Congress, Indian, and Filipino immigrants.
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Ended racial quotas and opened the door to more Asian immigration. Led to a significant increase in Asian populations and greater cultural influence in the U.S. Key players were President Lyndon B. Johnson and the U.S. Congress.
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The media began portraying Asian Americans as successful, obedient minorities. Masked systemic discrimination created pressure to conform without addressing real challenges. Key players were the Mainstream media, sociologists, and policymakers.
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Chinese American beaten to death in a racially motivated attack. Sparked a civil rights movement among Asian Americans demanding justice and visibility. Key players were Vincent Chin, Ronald Ebens, Michael Nitz, and Asian American advocacy groups.
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Surge in hate crimes against Asian Americans amid pandemic fears and political rhetoric. Highlighted ongoing racism and the fragility of assimilation despite decades of contribution. Key players were Asian American communities, Stop AAPI Hate, and U.S. lawmakers.