The Chinese Experience In Australia Flashcards
When did the Chinese come to Australia?
1850-1900
How many Chinese people came to Australia?
Roughly 90,000
Why did the Chinese come to Australia?
Better opportunities/jobs.
Where did the Chinese arrive/were located?
Mainly New South Wales and Victoria.
What type of work did the Chinese do?
“Coolie labour”. Unskilled work, usually as indentured servants. Mining.
What was the Chinese experience like in Australia?
They were discriminated against. They were not allowed to join trade unions. This meant that their working conditions were much worse than other workers’. They usually lived on the outskirts of cities, and only bought things from local Chinese businesses, as they were unwelcome at “White” shops. They were also expected to join secret societies, to help protect the Chinese community and keep everyone out of trouble with the Europeans.
What were “White Australian’s” attitudes towards the Chinese?
They thought the Chinese were immoral, diseased, corrupt, gamblers, took drugs, and were responsible for European men not being able to find any work. Chinese people would often be abused by Europeans, especially in minefields where they worked. They would have rocks, food scraps or other things thrown at them.
How are the Chinese remembered today?
Remembered as important part of Australia’s history. Important in the goldrush, vital trading partners with Australia today.
