Chinese coolie labor in the American South.

by MiuraNoAnjin

So I am an undergrad student at a University that allows you to do an undergraduate research thesis for some extra clout if you want to publish early. For my research topic, I have decided to look into Chinese Laborers who were brought to the American South during the time of reconstruction to work the plantations. Some Southern planters seemed to get it in their heads that if they could not have slave labor, then coolie labor was the next best thing. I feel it is going pretty well so far, and I have been reading old newspapers from the 1860s and 1870s for primary sources. I have even found a speech given by Frederick Douglas that I found useful! As this project is going on however, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find the sources I need. Are there any sources or databases that anyone can recommend? I feel I have already exhausted what is available through my university and the Library of Congress. If not, then are there any tips about finding sources for a niche topic like this that anyone can share?

sunagainstgold

My main strategies would be:

  • Look through any works of secondary scholarship you have for what sources (primary and secondary) they cite
  • If there are any scholars who work on something similar, e-mail them! Say you're working on a thesis, and have a few quick questions about sources. Mention that you read one of their articles/books (use its name). If they respond positively, ask for some pointers in the right direction!
  • If I can't find further sources, I shape my project around the sources I already have. That might take some reconception (a different argument, a different question--probably more limited, like, "how this is discussed in newspapers" or whatnot), but it's also had some really good outcomes for me.

ETA: This is a really fascinating topic and I would totally read this thesis.

enygma9753

It does sound interesting.

Are there local Chinese cultural/business/community associations or organizations in your area? You could reach out to them. They may be able to direct you to resources you might not have considered.