The earliest South Asian immigrants to the United States were predominantly Punjabi Sikhs who arrived at West Coast ports between 1899 and 1914. These pioneers came seeking economic opportunities and fleeing political upheaval in their homeland under British colonial rule.

Most arrived at the ports of San Francisco, Seattle, and Vancouver, often after hearing stories of prosperity from soldiers who had traveled through North America while serving in the British Indian Army. The journey was arduous, taking weeks by steamship across the Pacific Ocean.

These early arrivals found work in lumber mills, railroad construction, and agricultural fields. In California's Central Valley, they quickly gained a reputation as skilled farmers, particularly in cultivating rice, which required expertise they brought from Punjab's agricultural traditions.

Despite facing significant discrimination and legal barriers, including laws preventing them from owning land or becoming citizens, these pioneers established the foundation for future South Asian communities in America. They built the first gurdwaras (Sikh temples) in Stockton (1912) and El Centro (1948), creating spiritual and community centers that served as anchors for the growing population.

By 1914, approximately 6,000-7,000 South Asians had entered the United States, though many were subsequently forced to leave due to discriminatory laws and policies. Those who remained formed tight-knit communities, particularly in California's agricultural regions.