Meaning: This quote by Denis Kearney, a prominent figure in the late 19th century labor movement in the United States, sheds light on the plight of Chinese immigrant laborers during that period. Kearney was known for his strong advocacy for the rights of American workers, particularly those in the West who felt threatened by the influx of Chinese immigrants who were willing to work for lower wages. His quote reflects the widespread sentiment at the time that Chinese laborers were being exploited and marginalized in the American workforce.

During the late 19th century, the United States experienced a significant influx of Chinese immigrants, particularly to the West Coast, where they were recruited to work on various labor-intensive projects such as building railroads, mining, and agricultural labor. Kearney's description of Chinese immigrants as being "imported by companies" highlights the fact that many of them were brought to the United States by labor contractors who served the interests of industries seeking cheap and plentiful labor. These immigrants were often subjected to harsh working conditions and minimal wages, leading Kearney to compare their treatment to that of serfs and slaves.

The reference to Chinese immigrants being "worked like slaves" underscores the grueling and exploitative nature of the labor that many of them were forced to endure. Many Chinese immigrants faced long hours, dangerous working conditions, and little to no job security. Additionally, they often encountered discrimination and prejudice from the broader American society, further exacerbating their marginalized position in the labor force.

Kearney's assertion that Chinese immigrants "go back to China with all their earnings" speaks to the prevailing belief that many Chinese laborers were viewed as sojourners rather than permanent residents of the United States. Despite their contributions to the nation's economic development, they were often denied the opportunity to fully integrate into American society and were subjected to discriminatory laws such as the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which restricted Chinese immigration and naturalization.

The observation that Chinese immigrants "seem to have no sex" and that "boys work, girls work; it is all alike to them" reflects the pervasive nature of Chinese immigrant labor in various industries. Both men and women were recruited to perform arduous and often dangerous work, and their labor was essential to the economic growth of the American West. However, this also meant that Chinese immigrant women faced the same harsh working conditions and exploitation as their male counterparts, highlighting the gender-neutral nature of their exploitation in the labor market.

In conclusion, Denis Kearney's quote sheds light on the harsh realities faced by Chinese immigrant laborers in the late 19th century United States. Their experiences as exploited and marginalized workers, subjected to discriminatory laws and societal prejudices, serve as a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by immigrant communities throughout American history. While Kearney's words reflect a specific historical context, they also offer valuable insights into the broader themes of labor exploitation, immigration, and the struggle for equality and justice in the American workforce.