Coolies Collection
"Unsung Heroes: Tracing the Footsteps Across Time and Continents" From the vast rubber plantations in Malaysia to the bustling streets of Baghdad
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"Unsung Heroes: Tracing the Footsteps Across Time and Continents" From the vast rubber plantations in Malaysia to the bustling streets of Baghdad, coolies played an integral role in shaping history. In 1907, their tireless efforts transformed rubber trees into finished motor tires, revolutionizing transportation. As overseers directed these hardworking individuals, known as coolies, they labored under the scorching sun to ensure a steady supply of this vital resource. In Hong Kong's vibrant cityscape, a man wearing a traditional straw coolie hat sat on a stool - an emblematic image that symbolized their resilience and dedication. Captured in black and white photographs from 1908, we catch a glimpse at breakfast - fueling themselves for another day of arduous work. Traveling back to 1890 Calcutta, we witness the Meean Mir Coolie Corps eagerly awaiting shipment for The Chin-Lushai Expedition. These unsung heroes formed an essential part of military operations during times of conflict. Yet even amidst battles fought far away from home soil, disputes occasionally arose among them as depicted in engravings showcasing quarrels within Siamese quarries or foot races held by coolies serving in Canton's Military Train. Beyond laborious tasks and military endeavors lay stories that shed light on lesser-known aspects of their lives. A lithograph titled "The Seamy Side of Victory" reveals Japanese coolies in Osaka after war; it serves as a poignant reminder that victory often came at great personal cost. They were not limited to physical labor alone; they also served as carriers for supplies supporting Chinese troops during critical moments captured through powerful lithographs. Additionally, sedan chairs became synonymous with luxury travel during the late 19th century when wealthy individuals relied on strong-shouldered coolies to transport them through bustling cities. Through these glimpses into the lives of coolies, we uncover a rich tapestry of history.