The 1871 Anti-Chinese massacre in Los Angeles, and Anti-Asian American antipathies during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Aim: This paper examines the 1871 massacre against the Chinese people in Los Angeles, leading us to reconsider that massacre and relate it to the numerous hate crimes committed against Asian Americans today. Methods: The methods used were historical research and analysis of the social, cultural, and political contexts of the Asian Massacre in the 1870s, 1880s, and 1890s. Results: Overall, the 1871 Anti-Chinese Massacre was a devastating event that resulted in multiple deaths. It provides a useful lens for comparing current acts of racism against Asians since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Conclusions:The United States has a long history of racist ideologies that have pushed social and political agendas to maintain power. From the grand jury's failure to punish the murderers involved in the 1871 Chinese Massacre to political leaders posting racist tweets on social media in 2020, it is important to remember that hatred will always seek a public platform from which to spread. Nurses and in key positions to keep this from happening.