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During the early 1950's, Asian Americans faced constant accusations of being suspect, dangerous, and communist because of China's transition into a communist nation and involvement in the Korean War. This mural intended to create a better understanding of Chinese Americans and help relax tensions between the United States and China. Nonetheless, the Chinese community overwhelmingly rejected Leong's painting. While some believed the depictions in the mural to be too Chinese, others found the subjects to be too American. Still others believed the mural embodied anti-American sentiments, leading the artist to be investigated by the FBI and to become distanced from the Chinese American community.Label
Painted in 1952 on seven masonite panels with egg tempera and casein, One Hundred Years' History of the Chinese in America stands at an impressive 5 feet tall by 17 1/2 feet wide. Here are a few symbols we've identified. What other symbols can you find?
Dragon is symbolic of China and of its culture. It represents auspicious powers.
Gold Mountain or gum shan, was the name Chinese used for the United States, referring to the gold discovered in California in 1848.
Red traditionally has been a color of luck widely used in celebrations and important events. It was also associated with the Communist Party.
Brick walls symbolize the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act which prohibited immigration of Chinese laborers. The wall could also represent boundaries and restrictions set upon the Chinese community.
Lion dance celebration of Chinese New Year; prosperity; arrival of new jobs and lives.
Military ribbons which represented the Chinese Americans' service in the Armed Forces during World War II.
Ping Yuen is the first public housing project on the West Coast, a stepping stone and symbol of hope for new immigrants.
Baseball is one of America's favorite pastimes. This child embraces the culture he knows.