The mobilization of a reflective diaspora: analysis of the first Chinese migrations in Ecuador from a sociological and sociohistorical perspective

Abstract

In Ecuador, the Chinese diaspora is one of the oldest overseas migratory groups. Since their arrival during the second half of the 19th century, Chinese migrants have developed successful strategies and practices for connecting with the local territory and society. These include establishing extensive commercial networks, introducing new ingredients and culinary recipes into local gastronomy, and building robust networks of social and cultural capital. This article aims to unveil the practices and strategies that facilitated the arrival and integration of this diaspora into Ecuadorian territory from a sociological and sociohistorical perspective.