Which group of immigrants faced significant discrimination in the late 19th and early 20th centuries?

The group that faced significant discrimination in the late 19th and early 20th centuries was primarily the Chinese immigrants. This period was marked by a surge in anti-Chinese sentiment, leading to the enactment of discriminatory laws like the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which effectively barred Chinese laborers from entering the United States. The hostility towards Chinese immigrants stemmed from a variety of factors, including economic competition, cultural differences, and racial prejudice. Many white Americans viewed Chinese workers as a threat to their jobs, especially in the context of economic downturns and job scarcity. Over time, this discrimination grew into a societal consensus that dehumanized and marginalized the Chinese community, starkly illustrating the intersection of race and immigration in U.S. history.

In contrast, while German, Irish, and Italian immigrants also faced significant discrimination, it varied in intensity and form. Irish immigrants were often subject to anti-Catholic sentiment and social stigma, but they gradually assimilated into American society and became part of the political framework. Italian immigrants faced similar challenges, facing stereotypes and violence, especially as they settled in urban areas. However, it was the Chinese who experienced outright exclusion through formal legislation, underscoring their unique position in the broader narrative of