Hong Kong Immigration History Quiz

A significant event in Chinese history leading to a surge in immigration to Hong Kong, with the population increasing from 300,000 in 1901 to 625,000 in 1921.

Prior to the 1950s, Hong Kong was seen as a temporary refuge for mainland Chinese seeking escape from unrest and hardship, with immigrants considered "sojourners" rather than permanent residents.

During the 19th century, Hong Kong became a significant point of departure for Chinese emigrating to other parts of the world, especially the United States.

Throughout its history, Hong Kong experienced several significant waves of immigration from mainland China, influenced by factors such as rebellions, wars, economic opportunities, and natural disasters.

A major rebellion in China from 1850 to 1864 that triggered a considerable increase in immigration to Hong Kong. The population grew from around 100,000 in 1845 to 165,000 in 1861.

The ways society regulates and controls behavior to ensure conformity to established norms and laws.

Unofficial means of discouraging deviance through everyday interactions. Often found in small communities with strong social ties.

Official attempts to discourage and punish certain behaviors. More prevalent in larger, more diverse communities.

Registration systems and identity cards can be used as a form of social control, monitoring and regulating individuals' movements and actions.

In 1950s Hong Kong, stricter laws were enforced to control immigration, including fines and imprisonment for unauthorized entry.

The population of Hong Kong changed significantly between 1937 and 1946, influenced by both immigration and expulsions. Around 1.2 million residents were present in 1937, dropping to 600,000 by 1945 due to expulsions by the Japanese. By 1946, the population rose again to around 1.6 million.

Before World War II, Hong Kong's colonial government allowed free movement of Chinese people across the border between Hong Kong and China.

The 'entrepôt' thesis suggests that Hong Kong's success as a trade hub was due to its open border policy, allowing fluid interaction between buyers and itinerant traders in China.

These three factors contributed to Hong Kong's open movement policy. The policy promoted trade, fostered cultural and familial connections, and provided refuge for Chinese seeking safety.

A key factor in Hong Kong's open border policy was the recognition of cultural and familial ties between Hong Kong and China, reflected in shared customs, education, and familial connections between Canton and Guangxi.

A nickname for the United States, used by Chinese emigrants during the Gold Rush period. It represented the promise of wealth and opportunity.

Conflicts between China and Britain in the mid-19th century, primarily over the British trade of opium into China. These wars had a significant impact on Chinese emigration, leading to the search for new opportunities.

The lack of available land for farming in China during the 19th century, contributing to poverty and pushing people towards seeking opportunities abroad.

Catastrophic events such as floods and droughts, leading to widespread food shortages and hardship in China, encouraging people to leave in search of a better life.

During the 19th century, Hong Kong became a major transit point for Chinese emigrants seeking to travel to the United States. Its well-developed infrastructure and relatively lenient regulations facilitated the journey.

A law passed in Hong Kong to regulate the flow of emigrants, establishing rules and procedures for those departing for foreign countries.

This comparison highlights the stark difference in potential income for Chinese emigrants. The promise of higher wages in the US served as a powerful motivation for leaving China.

The goal of establishing a clear and recognizable political identity for a colony, often achieved through branding and image projection.

A three-stage strategy used by colonies in the 1950s and 1960s to manage their relationship with the administering power. Acceptance involves passive compliance, control seeks to gain autonomy, and regularization aims for formal recognition.

The aspiration for economic prosperity and stability that characterized Hong Kong in the 1950s and 1960s. This drive was often fueled by a combination of political turmoil in mainland China and post-war economic recovery.

Factors that drive migration. Push factors are negative conditions in a place of origin that motivate people to leave, while pull factors are positive conditions in a destination that attract migrants.

A mindset often adopted by migrants who are fleeing conflict or hardship, characterized by a focus on immediate survival, short-term goals, and a strong emphasis on family and community.

A value system often associated with refugee mentality, prioritizing practical gains, family interests, and social and political stability over individual aspirations and long-term goals.

A tendency to prioritize immediate needs and goals over long-term planning, often influenced by uncertainty and the need for adaptability.

A characteristic of refugee mentality, characterized by limited involvement in community affairs and political processes, often due to a sense of temporary residency and a focus on personal survival.

Before the 1970s, immigrants to Hong Kong mainly sought to join their families, clans, and people of similar backgrounds. This suggests a strong sense of community and belonging.

In the 1960s, the British government in Hong Kong resisted accepting large numbers of refugees for permanent residence, citing overpopulation concerns.

The term 'illegal immigrant' became more prominent in the early 1970s, indicating a shift in how immigration was viewed and regulated.

During the 1970s, fears of overpopulation emerged, linking excessive immigration to social problems like housing shortages and unemployment.

The colonial government in Hong Kong preferred financial independence over providing expensive public services to address the needs of immigrants.

A major fire in a densely populated area of Kowloon in 1953 exposed the vulnerability of Hong Kong's housing and raised questions about government preparedness.

During this time, immigration control emerged as a potential solution to address concerns about social and economic problems.

The discourse on the 'people problem' and the government's financial concerns created a context for more stringent immigration control.