The Story of Chinese Labourers 1
History: KS3, topic 16.4.5
The Story of Chinese Labourers
Chinese labourers also contributed to the French and British war effort through skilled and unskilled labour. However, they were widely discriminated against.
Establishment of the Republic of China
- In 1911 AD, the Republic of China was established following the overthrow of the Chinese royal family.
- The Chinese offered troops to fight for the allies at the start of the war
- They hoped to be recognised as a strong country and build up trade links.
- However, Britain and France rejected the offer of soldiers.
France accepts the Chinese offer
- In 1915 AD, the Chinese once more offered manpower, however this time it was for labourers and not soldiers.
- France accepted this offer but the British still refused.
The British change their minds
- The heavy losses in 1916 AD changed the minds of the British.
- 20,000 troops were killed on the first day of fighting at the Battle of the Somme in 1916 AD and both sides continued to have heavy losses.
- The British recruited Chinese labourers as additional manpower.
Chinese recruitment
- From 1917 AD onwards, Britain recruited 94,146 Chinese labourers from the provinces of northern China.
- However, this figure doesn't include the additional 40,000 men recruited by France or the men employed in other regions like Mesopotamia (Iraq).
Medical examinations
- Once the Chinese had arrived in Britain they were medically examined for 21 different conditions, such as tuberculosis, trachoma (eye disease) and dental disorders.
- If they passed the medical inspections they were disinfected and also had their head shaved.
Test yourself on The Story of Chinese Labourers 1
What happened in 1911?
In what year did France accept the Chinese offer of manpower?