Reasons why Chinese laborers were employed:
Lack of American Workers: After the American Civil War, there was a shortage of skilled and manual workers willing to take on the challenging and hazardous tasks of building the Transcontinental Railroad. Chinese workers were willing to do the back-breaking work for relatively lower wages compared to white laborers.
Experience in Railway Construction: Many of the Chinese laborers brought valuable skills and experience in railway construction from their home country. China had already embarked on several railway projects before the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad, and many Chinese workers were familiar with the engineering techniques required.
Resilience and Adaptability: Chinese workers were known for their resilience and ability to adapt to difficult working conditions. They endured harsh weather, hazardous terrain, and long hours to complete the project.
Contributions and Achievements:
Central Pacific Construction: Chinese laborers were primarily employed by the Central Pacific Railroad, which was responsible for building the eastern section of the Transcontinental Railroad. They constructed bridges, tunnels, and laid thousands of miles of track through rough terrain.
Promontory Summit: The completion of the Transcontinental Railroad was marked by the famous "Golden Spike" ceremony at Promontory Summit in Utah on May 10, 1869. Chinese workers were among those who hammered the final spike, symbolizing the union of the eastern and western segments of the railroad.
Challenges Faced:
Discrimination and Prejudice: Chinese workers faced significant discrimination and prejudice from white workers, who often associated them with cheap labor and competition for jobs. Despite their hard work and contributions, they were subjected to racial slurs, violence, and unfair treatment.
Exploitation and Low Wages: Chinese laborers were paid lower wages than their white counterparts and were often subjected to harsh working conditions, leading to high accident rates and fatalities.
The contribution of Chinese laborers to the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad cannot be overstated. They played a vital role in one of the most ambitious and challenging engineering projects of the 19th century, despite facing numerous challenges. Their participation helped bring the East and West coasts of the United States closer together, transforming transportation, commerce, and the very fabric of the nation.