The Chinese Head Tax (1885–1923)

Canadian Turning Points Series This full-colour 12 × 18 inch educational poster examines one of the most significant immigration policies in Canadian history. Introduced in 1885, the Chinese Head Tax required Chinese immigrants to pay a special fee to enter Canada. Over time, the tax increased dramatically and became a powerful tool of racial exclusion. Through archival imagery and clear historical explanation, the poster highlights how the policy affected Chinese communities who had already contributed to the building of the Canadian Pacific Railway and other aspects of nation-building. Designed for classroom and library displays, the poster includes historical context, a concise timeline, and discussion prompts to support conversations about immigration policy, discrimination, and the evolution of civil rights in Canada. Ideal for: • Canadian history classrooms • library heritage displays • diversity and equity programming • Asian Heritage Month exhibits