Some people believe that 2,000 years ago Chinese visited parts of Mexico and the southwestern United States. They came to
explore new lands and peoples.

In the 19^th century, many parts of China were in trouble. Some people did not have enough food. Some people running the government were dishonest. Some had no jobs, and neighborhoods were crowded. Others were fighting about differing religious beliefs. They wanted to leave China for a chance at a better life.

In 1850 people in China heard about the gold found in California. Twenty-five thousand Chinese men sailed from southern China to the Golden State. They would try to search for gold on their own or provide labor for others.