The Indispensable Enemy facts for kids

The Indispensable Enemy: Labor and the Anti-Chinese Movement in California (ISBN: 978-0520029057) is an important history book by Alexander Saxton. It focuses on the history of workers and the anti-Chinese movement in California. This book became one of the first and most important texts in the field of Asian American studies.

The book is known for showing how history can be understood through the "historical materialist tradition." This means looking at how economic and social conditions shape events. It is also seen as a great example of historical writing. It explores both the "history of workers and racism" and how different groups of people sometimes worked together (interracial "unity") but also faced challenges that limited this unity.

What is "The Indispensable Enemy" About?

This book explores a difficult time in California's past. It looks at the late 1800s, when many Chinese immigrants came to the United States. They came seeking new opportunities, especially during the California Gold Rush and to help build the railroads.

Challenges Faced by Chinese Immigrants

As more Chinese immigrants arrived, they faced a lot of unfair treatment. Many people already living in California saw them as a threat. They worried about jobs and cultural differences. This led to strong feelings against Chinese people. This period is known as the "anti-Chinese movement."

The Role of Labor Unions

A big part of Saxton's book looks at how labor unions were involved. Labor unions are groups of workers who join together to protect their rights and improve their working conditions. In California, some labor leaders and unions unfortunately played a role in the anti-Chinese movement. They sometimes blamed Chinese workers for low wages or for taking jobs.

Why "Indispensable Enemy"?

The title "The Indispensable Enemy" is very important. It suggests that for some groups, having an "enemy" (in this case, Chinese immigrants) was useful. It helped to unite different groups of white workers, even if they had their own disagreements. By focusing on a common "enemy," they could overlook their own differences and work together against the Chinese.

How the Book Changed History Studies

Alexander Saxton's book was groundbreaking when it came out in 1971. Before this book, the history of Asian Americans was not often taught or studied in depth. "The Indispensable Enemy" helped to create the field of Asian American studies. It showed how important it was to understand the experiences of Asian immigrants in the United States.

A New Way to Look at History

The book encouraged historians to look at history in a new way. It combined the study of labor (workers' rights and movements) with the study of race and racism. It showed how these two big topics are often connected. It also highlighted how unity can be built, but also how easily it can break down when racism is involved.

Who Was Alexander Saxton?

Alexander Saxton (1919–2012) was an American historian and writer. He was known for his work on American labor history and race relations. He taught at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) for many years. His research helped many people understand the complex history of different groups in America.