File:Anti-Chinese riots, Seattle, 1886 (MOHAI 1228).jpg

English:

During the mid-1880s, a nationwide economic depression led to widespread unemployment. Many white workers accused immigrants of taking their jobs. On the west coast, Chinese laborers were the targets of anger and mob violence.

In the fall of 1885, anti-Chinese feelings in Seattle led to four months of riots aimed at driving the Chinese out of the city. Some Seattle citizens organized to uphold the law and protect the Chinese. Even so, many Chinese laborers were driven from their homes and forced onto ships in the bay. Early in 1886, President Grover Cleveland declared martial law and sent in federal troops to restore order.

This 1886 illustration from Harper's Weekly, a national magazine, shows the anti-Chinese riots in Seattle. It shows a group of Chinese men (center) being chased and beaten by the mob.

Caption on border: Asahel Curtis, Commercial Photographer, 625 Colman Block, Seattle. Handwritten on mount: Anti-Chinese riots 1886. Caption by MOHAI staff.

• Subjects (LCTGM): Race riots--Washington (State)--Seattle; Crowds--Washington (State)--Seattle; Chinese Americans--Washington (State)--Seattle