Shanghaiing: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term originates from the city of Shanghai, where sailors were often forced to join ships bound for Asia during the 19th century.
• It combines 'Shanghai' with 'hijack,' indicating the forceful way people were taken.
• The word has historical connections to shanghaied sailors who were taken on ships without any prior agreement.

Historical Context

• In the 19th century, many sailors were lured into working on ships through deceitful practices or by being drugged.
• Ports like San Francisco were notorious for shanghaiing, with individuals known as 'crimps' facilitating the process.
• The practice played a significant role in maritime labor history, highlighting exploitation during a time of labor shortage.

Legal Aspects

• Shanghaied individuals often had little recourse; legal systems at the time offered scant protection for sailors.
• The practice was eventually outlawed in the early 20th century, as awareness of such exploitation grew.
• Today, any form of coercion into work is viewed as human trafficking, linking to modern legal battles for workers' rights.

Cultural References

• The term appears in literature and films, often depicting the gritty realities of sea life in the 1800s.
• There are songs and tales that romanticize the life of sailors, sometimes mentioning the dangers of being shanghaied.
• The vibrant imagery of shanghaiing has made its way into popular culture, often representing a loss of freedom.

Psychology

• The mindset of individuals involved in shanghaiing can be analyzed through the lenses of coercion and social pressure.
• Understanding the psychological manipulation techniques used by 'crimps' reveals insights into human behavior.
• The fear and disorientation experienced by victims highlight the psychological impact of coercive practices.