My Life in China and America · Chapter
Commissioner Yung Wing explained
This chapter introduces Yung Wing, the driving force behind the Chinese Educational Mission to the United States.
What happens
This chapter introduces Yung Wing, the driving force behind the Chinese Educational Mission to the United States. It details his humble beginnings in Macao, his early education at Mrs. Gutzlaff's school and the Morrison School, his journey to America with Mr. Brown, and his studies at Monson Academy. The chapter also highlights the fates of his companions, Wong Shing and Wong Fun, and emphasizes Yung Wing's modesty and dedication.
Themes in this chapter
Education as a Tool for National Reform
Yung Wing's education in Western schools and his subsequent mission to bring Chinese students to America exemplify the belief in education as a means to reform and strengthen China.
The West as Model and Mentor
The chapter shows Western teachers and institutions (Mrs. Gutzlaff, Mr. Brown, Monson Academy) as mentors guiding Yung Wing's development.
Characters to notice
- Yung Wing
The central figure of the chapter, whose life story and character are the focus.
- Mrs. Gutzlaff
Opened the children's school where Yung Wing first began his education.
- Mr. Brown
Teacher at the Morrison School who brought Yung Wing to the United States.
- Wong Shing
One of Yung Wing's companions who returned to China due to health issues and later became a printer.
- Wong Foon
Another companion who studied medicine in Scotland and became a respected physician in Canton.
- Andrew Shortrede
A Scotchman who funded the boys' support for two years.
Key passages
“Such in brief outline is the Chinese Educational Mission to the United States. The head and front of the whole marvellous enterprise, humanly speaking, is Commissioner Yung Wing.”
The Chinese Educational Mission to the United States is largely the achievement of Commissioner Yung Wing, who is its primary leader and organizer.
Highlights Yung Wing's central role in the mission.
“He was born in 1828, of a worthy family in humble life, near the city of Macao in Southern China.”
Yung Wing was born in 1828 into a modest but respectable family near Macao in southern China.
Provides basic biographical information about Yung Wing's origins.
“In 1847, Mr. Brown, who had long noted his patient ardor in study, the marks of ability he showed and a certain original vigor of will and strength of character that were in him, brought him, at the age of sixteen, with two other native lads, also his pupils, of about the same age, to the United States.”
In 1847, Mr. Brown, recognizing Yung Wing's diligence and strong character, brought him and two other students to the United States at age sixteen.
Describes the pivotal moment of Yung Wing's journey to America.