Lunch and Learn: Kuang Qizhao, the Chinese, and Mark Twain (Virtual Event)

The Connecticut Museum of Culture and History will host a virtual presentation on Tuesday, May 6, at 12:00 pm exploring the fascinating story of Kuang Qizhao, official translator for the Chinese Educational Mission (CEM) in Hartford from 1874 to 1883. Presented by Sam Wong and Evelyn Wong, this talk will delve into Kuang’s life, his role in the CEM—the first program to send Chinese students abroad—and his unique relationship with his neighbors, including Mark Twain and Joseph Twichell.

Kuang’s contributions extended beyond diplomacy. His publication of A Dictionary of English Phrases challenged American perceptions and marked a pivotal moment in cross-cultural exchange. The talk will also explore how Kuang and the Chinese presence in Hartford may have influenced Twain’s writings, including Ah Sin, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, and A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court.

This virtual event is free and open to the public. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link. For more information or to reserve your spot, visit connecticutmuseum.org.

Event takes place online from the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History, 1 Elizabeth Street, Hartford, CT 06105.