Coolie () is a term historically used for low-wage labourers, typically those of Indian or Chinese descent. The term was first used in the 16th century by European traders across Asia. In the 18th century, it more commonly referred to migrant Indian indentured labourers. In the 19th century, during the British colonial era, the term was adopted for the transportation and employment of Asian labourers via employment contracts on sugar plantations formerly worked by African slaves.
The word has had a variety of negative connotations. In modern-day English, it is usually regarded as offensive. In the 21st century, coolie is generally considered a racial slur for Asians in Oceania, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Americas (particularly in the Caribbean).
The word originated in the 17th-century...
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Amoy, from Kulangseu.jpg
Amoy, from Kulangseu
Chinese railroad workers in snow.jpg
Chinese workers employeed for the construction of the first Transcontinental Railroad of the US.
East Indian Coolies in Trinidad - Project Gutenberg eText 16035.jpg
East Indian Coolies in Trinidad
East Indian Women, Men and Children (13227675614).jpg
Title: [East Indian Women, Men and Children]
Creator: Morin, Felix
Date: ca. 1890-1896
Part of: Phot...
Fete des travailleurs indiens.jpg
Fete des travailleurs indiens
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Members of the Chinese Labour Corps carry out riveting work at the Tanks Corps Central Workshops
Newly arrived coolies in Trinidad.jpg
Newly arrived Indian coolies in Trinidad
Real Cédula de Gracia.jpg
His Majesty's Royal Decree