California Teacher Credentialing Examination (CSET) Practice Test

The correct answer reflects a significant historical context in which Chinese workers, who initially were often seen as hard-working and essential during labor shortages, began facing increasing hostility as competition for jobs intensified. This shift in perception was primarily driven by economic factors, particularly during times of economic downturn when job scarcity led to heightened competition among workers.

As the job market tightened, many Americans viewed Chinese laborers as direct competitors, which resulted in xenophobia and anti-Chinese sentiment. This animosity was fueled by various factors, including cultural differences and the stereotype of Chinese workers as taking jobs away from local citizens. Consequently, discriminatory laws and social unrest aimed at Chinese communities reflected this escalating hostility.

In contrast, the other options do not align with this historical shift. The notion that Chinese workers were praised for their diligence does not capture the changing attitudes during this period. Similarly, stating that the attitude remained neutral overlooks the societal tensions that characterized the era. Lastly, while some Chinese individuals may have had roles within their communities, the broader trend was marked by exclusion and hostility rather than acceptance as community leaders.