Short Film about Chinese immigrant railroad workers now online

Although over 10,000 Chinese immigrants helped build the western half of the Transcontinental Railroad, their crucial contribution was largely overlooked for almost an entire century.

2015 marks the 150th anniversary of the contributions by Chinese immigrants to the building of the western half of the Transcontinental Railroad. Folk musician Charlie Chin narrates this accessible introduction to an important part of Asian American history. Although over 10,000 Chinese immigrants helped build the western half of the Transcontinental Railroad, their crucial contribution was largely overlooked for almost an entire century. The Golden Spike is the story of these forgotten workers with photographs, paintings and political cartoons from the period.

Even though these workers were absent from the famous photograph of the completion of the railroad at Promontory Summit, their strength and courage are clear from what they accomplished. As Chin remarks, “These Chinese literally moved mountains by hand.”

In honor of the 150th anniversary, we are proud to partner with the the film’s writers, producers and directors Amy Y. Chan and Jim Choi to make this film available for viewing for free on CAAM’s YouTube Channel. This is an accessible introduction for educators, students and others who are interested in learning more about these workers and their invaluable contributions. The film is also available for purchase or rental through our Films for Educators catalog.

Writer, Producer, Directors: Amy Y. Chan, Jim Choi / Executive Producers: Stephen Gong, Don Young

 

1 Comment

  • A most timely tribute to the thousands of Chinese immigrants who faced harrowing conditions, low pay and no recognition for their part in building some of the most spectacular and critical parts of the Transcontinental Pacific Railroad. This film is a welcome addition to the New York Historical Society Exhibit on the Chinese-American Exclusion/Inclusion Act [that ended on April 19th. Still visible on internet. http://chineseamerican.nyhistory.org/explore/

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