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South China - Coolie Women
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South China - Coolie Women
South China - Coolie Women - Boats in harbour, women sitting on quayside. Part of Box 24 Boswell Collection Southern China and Its people. Date: circa 1900
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Media ID 14370529
© The Boswell Collection, Bexley Heritage Trust / Mary Evans
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph captures a moment in time from the early 1900s in South China, showcasing the daily life of coolie women on the bustling harbor. Coolie women were laborers, primarily from Southern China, who were brought to work on plantations and in factories in Southeast Asia, the Americas, and other parts of the world during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In this image, a group of coolie women are seen sitting on the quayside, their attire reflecting their humble origins. Their simple, loose-fitting garments and bound feet are indicative of their status as laborers in this period. The women appear to be taking a break from their work, perhaps waiting for their next assignment or for the arrival of a boat carrying new passengers. The harbor is filled with boats of various sizes, some of which are anchored while others are coming in or going out. The coolie women's gaze is fixed on the boats, perhaps anticipating the arrival of a new group of laborers or the departure of their fellow workers. The scene is further illuminated by the warm glow of a lantern, adding to the sense of activity and anticipation. This photograph is a poignant reminder of the role that coolie women played in the global labor market during this period, and the challenges they faced as they were uprooted from their homes and communities to work in unfamiliar environments. Despite the hardships, their resilience and determination are evident in this image, making it a powerful and evocative snapshot of a bygone era.
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