Chapter 26: People from Afar
In the East African Colony's Second Town, located near the Little Rhine River, more than 500 Chinese immigrants had been resettled. To assist the newcomers, over 50 immigrants from the first town were transferred to guide them, alongside three German supervisors responsible for local security.
Ernst had chosen Chinese immigrants with a specific background – those who had been poor for generations or were refugees, typically individuals with little to no education and no inclination toward resistance. He understood that Chinese immigrants tended to be patient and non-confrontational, adhering to the proverbial "people do not fight with officials" principle.
Ernst believed that, historically, those who led rebellions in China had often been individuals with some level of education. Therefore, he had selected immigrants with a lack of cultural and educational exposure, who were less likely to challenge the existing order.
Contrastingly, Ernst noted that colonists preferred docile subjects, as exemplified by the British's utilization of Indians in their colonies. Such subjects were not only obedient but also naturally skilled at maintaining the illusion of power, which complemented the colonists' efforts to suppress other colonies.
In the East African colonies, the indigenous tribes were considered assets to be sold rather than part of the population. Thus, Ernst was more concerned about these native populations than the new Chinese immigrants, who were hardworking and diligent.
The second town was rapidly developing, thanks to the experience gained from establishing the first town. Furthermore, the introduction of indica rice from India, suitable for the tropical climate, allowed for the cultivation of rice in the region. The proximity of the Little Rhine River ensured a consistent water source for the rice fields.
Rice was chosen over wheat due to its higher yield, which was crucial in a region that required significant labor for development. Ernst also planned to cultivate corn in the future, following the widespread practice in Africa.
In Second Town, new Chinese immigrants were actively engaged in reclaiming paddy fields. Their diligent efforts contributed to the town's development. Despite the hard work, these immigrants had embraced the opportunity for a better life in East Africa.
Li Tiezhu, a newcomer from North China, asked Zhang Jiaxiang, another immigrant who had been in East Africa for several months, about their new environment and the Germans, whom they referred to as "Mr. Kilman."
Zhang Jiaxiang assured Li Tiezhu that the Germans in East Africa were far from the oppressive landlords they had known in China. In fact, the Chinese immigrants held a relatively high status in the colony, equivalent to the Germans on paper. However, in practice, the Germans held more authority due to their roles in management.
As the conversation continued, Zhang Jiaxiang shared his own experience of leaving the Qing Dynasty and coming to East Africa for a better life. He emphasized that life had improved significantly since his arrival, and they could enjoy three meals a day. The prospect of earning two taels of meat per month for good work further motivated them.
Li Tiezhu and the others were encouraged by these stories and redoubled their efforts in the canal repair project. They looked forward to the possibility of enjoying regular meals and meat, which had become a rare luxury.
The progress of the canal repair work accelerated as the new immigrants found inspiration in the conversation. Second Town was gradually taking shape, with the Chinese immigrants making a significant contribution to its development. Even the German supervisors were impressed by their strong work ethic and determination.
(end of Chapter 26)