History 346: Introduction to Asian American History

Prof. J. Wu

Reading Questions Week 1

(These questions are intended to help prepare you for class discussion and for exams.)

Takaki, Strangers from a Different Shore, pp. 3-75.

1. What is the significance of the title, Strangers from a Different Shore?

2. What is the relationship between westward expansion and Asian immigration?

3. Define the concept of a "transnational industrial reserve army" and explain its significance for Asian immigration.

4. Compare the immigration experience of the various Asian subgroups. Consider their motivations for immigrating and their backgrounds (rural versus urban,

educational level, religious beliefs, etc.). How did their experiences differ based on the size of the immigrant population, the gender composition of the group, the

international status of their native country, and their reception in the United States?

5. Compare the work, family, and community experiences of Asian immigrants in Hawaii versus the mainland.

6. Identify the terms and explain their significance for Asian Americans

Naturalization Law of 1790

U.S. v. Bhagat Singh Thind (1923)

Page Law of 1875

Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882

Re Ah Moy, on Habeas Corpus

Gentlemen’s Agreement

Picture Brides

Immigration Act of 1924

Tydings-McDuffie Act of 1934

dual-wage system

contract labor system

"credit-ticket" system

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