28
NATIONAL HISTORY DAY 2016
Use these three photographs to generate a discussion of pre- and post-earthquake Chinatown.
San Francisco, Calif. - China Town, Sacramento St., 1866
Library of Congress
www.loc.gov/pictures/item/2002719264/
In the heart of modern Chinatown, San Francisco, Calif., c. 1929
Library of Congress
www.loc.gov/pictures/item/89716184/
The Heart of Chinatown, San Francisco, Cal., c. 1906
Library of Congress
www.loc.gov/pictures/item/det1994011906/PP/
Questions from the Analyzing Photographs & Prints Teacher’s Guide www.loc.gov/teachers/usingprimarysources/guides.html
may help to focus students’ analysis of the photos individually and as parts of a story about Chinatown’s evolution. Consider
adding another layer to the discussion with this short film from Chinatown in 1903. www.loc.gov/item/00694411/
Ask:
• What can you learn from the photographs and film that is different from what can be learned from the map?
• What differences can be seen between Chinatown in 1866 and 1929? How are these differences evidence of encounter and
exchange?