The American Experience: Chinese Exclusion Act is a historical documentary film that takes a deep dive into one of the most discriminatory laws in American history. This 120-minute documentary is directed by Ric Burns and Li-Shin Yu and features actor Hoon Lee as the narrator. The story begins in the 19th century when Chinese immigrants started arriving in large numbers in America in search of opportunities. The Chinese played a significant role in building the American railroads, but many of them faced discrimination, racial prejudice, and violence.
The film explores how the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 came about and its effects on the Chinese community in America. The act was the first major law to restrict immigration based on ethnicity and nationality, and it severely limited the number of Chinese that could enter the country.
The Chinese Exclusion Act brought about an era of exclusion and discrimination that lasted for more than 60 years. The documentary explores the racial animosity that fueled the passage of the act and the political and economic factors that led to its creation.
The documentary also features interviews with historians, descendants of Chinese immigrants, and other experts who provide insights into the struggles of the Chinese in America.
The film also discusses the impact of the Chinese Exclusion Act on American society and the American identity. The documentary highlights the ways in which the act set a precedent for other discriminatory policies aimed at different immigrant groups and shows how it contributed to the development of America's "melting pot" culture.
The documentary is insightful, comprehensive, and well-researched. The filmmakers have done an excellent job of combining archival footage, historical documents, and interviews to provide a clear and accurate picture of this dark chapter in American history.
While the documentary is filled with sobering reminders of the racism and exclusion faced by the Chinese community in America, it is ultimately a story of resilience and perseverance. The Chinese community in America has overcome immense obstacles to make significant contributions to American society and culture.
In conclusion, The American Experience: Chinese Exclusion Act is a must-watch documentary for anyone interested in American history, racism, and the immigrant experience. The documentary is a poignant reminder of the dark legacy of exclusion and racism in America, but it also celebrates the resilience of the Chinese community and their important contributions to American society.
American Experience: Chinese Exclusion Act is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Free Trial on Amazon Prime
Custom Recommendations
Share with Your Family
