Shellfish for the Celestial Empire: The Rise and Fall of Commercial Abalone Fishing in California

Set during the gold rush of the 1800s, the narrative highlights a small group of Chinese immigrants who capitalized on the untapped resources of California's Pacific coast by harvesting black abalone. Todd Braje delves into the history of Chinese abalone fishing, offering a detailed examination that reflects the larger story of Chinese immigrants in America. This exploration reveals the intersection of cultural resilience and economic opportunity in a pivotal era of American history.