“I am satisfied the present Chinese labor invasion (it is not in any proper sense immigration—women and children do not come) is pernicious and should be discouraged. Our experience in dealing with the weaker races—the Negroes and Indians, for example—is not encouraging. We shall oppress the Chinamen, and their presence will make hoodlums and vagabonds of their oppressors. I therefore would consider with favor suitable measures to discourage the Chinese from coming to our shores.”
—RUTHERFORD B. HAYES
“I have been to see the Chinaman [physician] and am now on my way to be road overseer awhile.… While papa is sick I have to do a good many extra jobs.… It is necessary to see the Chink Doctor every day this week.”
—HARRY TRUMAN