yellow peril

The phrase "yellow peril" is an offensive and racially charged term that originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It refers to the alleged threat posed by Asian people, particularly those of East Asian descent, to Western societies. During this time, Asian immigrants were stereotyped and portrayed as an existential threat to Western civilization, seen as hordes of foreign invaders who would undermine Western cultural values, the economy, and political systems. It reflected deeply ingrained prejudices and xenophobia, often associated with the fears of job competition, interracial relationships, and the perceived cultural and racial superiority of the Western world. The term is widely condemned today for propagating racial stereotypes and promoting discrimination.