4.2 The Gentlemen's Agreement and immigration restrictions

The Gentlemen's Agreement of 1907 aimed to curb Japanese immigration to the U.S. amid rising anti-Asian sentiment. It was a diplomatic compromise between the U.S. and Japan, limiting labor migration while allowing family reunification.

This agreement marked a shift in Japanese American immigration patterns. While it slowed male laborer arrivals, it led to increased female immigration through "picture brides," shaping the community's demographics and influencing future generations.

Historical Context and Impact of the Gentlemen's Agreement

Context of Gentlemen's Agreement

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• Rising anti-Japanese sentiment fueled by racial prejudice and economic competition stoked fears of "Yellow Peril" (mass Asian immigration)
• Japanese immigration to U.S. grew rapidly, especially in California, perceived as economic threat to white workers
• San Francisco School Board's 1906 segregation order forced Japanese students into separate schools, escalating diplomatic tensions
• President Theodore Roosevelt intervened to maintain positive U.S.-Japan relations while addressing domestic immigration concerns

Effectiveness of immigration limits

• Japan limited passports for laborers while U.S. allowed family reunification and non-laborer immigrants
• Male laborer immigration decreased but female immigration increased through "picture brides" phenomenon
• Loopholes allowed continued immigration via Hawaii and Canada
• Agreement slowed but didn't halt Japanese immigration, shifting demographic composition of immigrant community

Comparison with Asian exclusion policies

• Chinese Exclusion Act (1882) legally banned Chinese laborers for over 60 years
• Gentlemen's Agreement relied on informal diplomatic understanding, allowing limited immigration
• Both policies targeted specific Asian groups due to racial prejudice and economic fears
• Differed in restriction level (total ban vs limitation) and implementation method (law vs diplomatic agreement)

Consequences for Japanese Americans

• Shifted towards family-based immigration, leading to more permanent settlements and growth of Japanese American businesses
• Temporarily eased U.S.-Japan tensions but left underlying issues unresolved
• Influenced Immigration Act of 1924, set precedent for diplomatic agreements in immigration control
• Reinforced stereotypes, encouraged closer-knit Japanese American communities
• Shaped early 20th century Japanese American experiences, influencing later generations' understanding of heritage