Legal 1965-PresentImmigration Act of 1965
The Immigration Act of 1965 abolished national origin quotas and dramatically changed the demographics of South Asian Americans.
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Becoming American Museum
Explore the rich heritage and history of Punjabi pioneers in America
Museum Exhibits
Explore our collection of 15 carefully curated exhibits documenting the Punjabi American experience.
Legal 1965-Present
Migration 1899-1914Early Arrivals
The first South Asians arrived in the United States through the West Coast ports in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
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Labor 1910-1940California Farming
Punjabi pioneers became successful farmers in California's Central Valley despite facing discriminatory land laws.
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Legal 1917-1946Exclusion Era
The Immigration Act of 1917 and subsequent laws effectively banned immigration from India and denied citizenship to South Asians.
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Religion 1912-PresentFaith & Community
Religious institutions served as vital community centers, preserving cultural identity and providing mutual support.
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Migration 1899-PresentImmigration Patterns
South Asian immigration to America has occurred in distinct waves, each shaped by changing laws and global events.
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Community 1900-PresentCommunity Impact
Punjabi pioneers made lasting contributions to American agriculture, economy, and culture despite facing discrimination.
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Migration 1900-1920The Journey
The voyage from Punjab to America was long and difficult, requiring courage and determination.
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History 1914Komagata Maru
The Komagata Maru incident of 1914 became a symbol of exclusion and injustice in the fight for immigration rights.
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Legal 1910-1946Legal Battles
Punjabi pioneers fought numerous legal battles challenging discriminatory laws and fighting for civil rights.
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Migration 1890-1920Leaving Home
Economic hardship and political upheaval in colonial Punjab pushed many to seek opportunities abroad.
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History 1850s-1890sMaharaja Duleep Singh
The last Maharaja of Punjab became one of the first Punjabis to visit America, symbolizing the community's complex colonial history.
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Community 1910-1950Settling Down
Despite legal barriers, Punjabi pioneers established families and communities, often through marriages with Mexican American women.
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Culture 1900-PresentCultural Traditions
Punjabi pioneers maintained and adapted their cultural traditions, enriching American multicultural tapestry.
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Labor 1900-1950Work and Labor
From lumber mills to farms, Punjabi pioneers performed difficult labor that built America's infrastructure and agriculture.
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