American History

In his memoir, written in 1915, Chinese-American pickpocket and confidence man George Appo (1856-1930) recalled his experiences as a young criminal during the late-nineteenth century. Giving specific examples from the book, consider the following questions:

1) Who was Appo? Briefly describe his life.
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2) Why did he become a criminal? How was he a product of social conditions? What does his story tell us about the class, race, gender, and sexual hierarchies of that time?

3) How did Appo critique American society during the “Long Depression”? Connect these criticisms to events or themes discussed in the course.

4) Did he offer any solutions? What were they? Why did late 19th and early 20th century reformers embrace him?

Your paper should be between 1,000-1,250 words (or 4-5 double-spaced pages, 12 point font, with margins between 1 and 1.25 inches.)

Also, use sources from the Appo Reading and no internet sources!