Why was Chinese immigration restricted in 1882? In the years leading up to 1882, a great number of Chinese people immigrated to the U.S. and began working in jobs like building railroads and factory work. They were very attractive to employers because they were willing to work longer hours, for less pay than most Americans were. But in 1882, a law was passed to limit Chinese immigration. This law was passed for a couple of reasons. People believed that the Chinese immigrants were taking jobs away from hard-working Americans. They were also upset because the Chinese people didn’t conform to American customs. Lastly, people believed that the Chinese people were dirty and unhealthy. People believed that the Chinese were taking jobs away from hard-working