Chinese Charity in Early Chinese American History

Abstract

This chapter examines philanthropic activities in early Chinese American history. It reveals the extraordinary prominence of philanthropy in the daily life of Chinese Americans from beginning of Chinese immigration to WWII. The essay illustrates the enormous magnitude of Chinese American philanthropy in the context of the Chinese diaspora and shows the importance of ethnic solidarity in motivating and mobilizing Chinese Americans to give. Such an examination underlines the limitations of the western romantic notions of philanthropy exclusively and simplistically as an act of “voluntary private giving,” motivated by universal love for others. The features of Chinese American giving in the early years can also help us better understand patterns of Chinese American charity today.