Description
Book SynopsisAsian American History: Primary Documents of the Asian American Experience cultivates historical perspective through experiential and reflective learning. Designed to fill a content gap in general introductory books on the subject, this text shares documentary case studies of Asian immigrants struggling for the right to be fully American. These readings illustrate the dynamic, powerful, and divisive socially constructed nature of racial categories, as well as the legacy of colonialism that served as a foundation for the development of racial hierarchies.
Trade Review"This comprehensive collection shows how Asian Americans have been defined by law and policy and in turn influenced the rules of membership and equality." Frank H. Wu, chancellor and dean, University of California Hastings College of the Law, and author of Yellow: Race in America Beyond Black and White (2002)."'Race' is created, formed, sustained, and enforced. It is not 'natural,' biological, individual, or accidental. 'Race' is not a manifestation of psychological bias against the unknown. It is not universal. 'Race' is historically constructed under concrete, specific conditions and experiences. It is forged institutionally and enforced politically. Asian American History: Primary Documents of the Asian American Experience
powerfully demonstrates these truths."Gordon H. Chang, Olive H. Palmer Professor in humanities and professor of history, Stanford University, and author of Fateful Ties: A History of America's Preoccupation with China (2015)."This important sourcebook of key cases, statutes, and treaties is an invaluable resource for scholars and students interested in American studies, Asian American studies, and American history. The materials document the way law structured the formation of Asian Americans and is an integral part of the story that is America."Robert S. Chang, professor of law and executive director, Fred T. Korematsu Center for Law and Equality, Seattle University School of Law, and author of Disoriented: Asian Americans, Law, and the Nation-State (1999).
