The Chinese from California became the major source of labor for the transcontinental railroad because
A)they had no other employment prospects.
B)they worked for lower wages than what whites would accept.
C)most were experienced in railroad construction.
D)most were forced into working for the railroads.
E)their more well-established unions won the railroad contracts.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Chinese from California became the major source of labor for the transcontinental railroad primarily because they were willing to work for lower wages than what white workers would accept. The Chinese were discriminated against and faced limited employment opportunities in California, which made them willing to work for lower wages than white workers. Additionally, many of the Chinese were experienced in railroad construction, having worked on previous railroad projects in California.

The Chinese from California Became the Major Source of Labor