Instruction: 1. illustration very simple

During the Civil War, the Transcontinental Railroad aimed to link the U.S. coasts. The Central Pacific Railroad started in Sacramento, CA, employing Chinese laborers, and the Union Pacific in Omaha, NE, with Irish immigrants, Civil War veterans, and freed slaves. Up to 20,000 Chinese workers joined, including 12-year-old Li Wei and his father, who faced discrimination with lower pay and no food or housing. The work was extremely dangerous, with rockslides, explosions, and avalanches, especially in the Sierra Nevada, where workers faced harsh winters and isolation.

Sadly, Li Wei’s father died in a rockslide. In 1867, Li Wei and many Chinese workers went on strike for better pay and conditions, but saw limited success. Tensions rose with Native American tribes, like the Cheyenne, who derailed a train near Plum Creek, NE, reflecting the challenges of westward expansion.

Despite these struggles, progress continued. On May 10, 1869, the railroad was completed at Promontory Summit, UT, marking a new era in American transportation. Afterward, Li Wei and others faced discrimination in finding work and often lived in isolated Chinatowns. On October 24, 1871, violence erupted in Los Angeles’ Chinatown, killing 19 Chinese, including Li Wei’s friend. In 1875, grieving, Li Wei returned to China.

The Transcontinental Railroad was transformative, yet costly for Chinese workers who made up most of the Central Pacific workforce. Facing discrimination and hazardous conditions, they were key to the railroad’s completion. Over 1,200 Chinese workers died, highlighting their sacrifice. Despite advancing U.S. infrastructure, they encountered ongoing hostility and laws against them. Their resilience underscores their overlooked role in shaping 19th-century America.

transcontinental railroad construction

Li Wei's Father teaching Li Wei in front of a railroad construction site

Li Wei and his father set off on a great adventure to help build the Transcontinental Railroad. They joined many other Chinese workers in Sacramento, California. The work was hard, but Li Wei was excited to be part of something so big. His father taught him to be brave and strong. Together, they faced each day with hope.

The Journey Begins

Li Wei standing alone with a sad expression, surrounded by snow-covered mountains

As the workers reached the Sierra Nevada mountains, the job became dangerous. Li Wei and his father faced rockslides and harsh winters. One day, a terrible rockslide occurred, and Li Wei's father was lost. Li Wei felt very sad but remembered his father's words to be brave. He continued working with the other workers, hoping for better days.

Challenges in the Mountains

Li Wei holding a protest sign amidst a group of workers, looking determined

In 1867, Li Wei and many workers decided to strike for better pay and conditions. They wanted to be treated fairly like everyone else. Although their success was limited, Li Wei felt proud to stand up for what was right. He learned that even small steps can make a difference. The work continued, and Li Wei kept his father's spirit alive.

A Stand for Fairness

Li Wei standing next to a completed railroad track, looking contemplative

On May 10, 1869, the railroad was finally completed. Li Wei felt proud of his hard work, but finding new jobs was difficult. Many faced discrimination, and Li Wei decided to return to China. He carried with him memories of his father and the friends he made. Li Wei's journey showed the strength and courage of many, reminding us of their important role in history.