British Chinese History

The history of Chinese sailors in Canada’s reveals a complex web of resilience, discrimination, and global interconnectedness. From the galleys of trans-Pacific steamships to the corridors of Ottawa, Chinese above and below deck were pivotal in the evolution of Canadian shipping, especially through 1880-1950. Often relegated to the most arduous and undervalued positions, they formed tight-knit communities, facilitated global trade, and faced systemic racism both onboard and ashore. This narrative ties their struggles and contributions to broader global trends, highlighting Vancouver as a critical hub in the network of Chinese seafarers across the British Empire and beyond.