Which factor contributed to the challenging conditions faced by Chinese railway workers?

The statement that Chinese railway workers were expected to bring their own work gear highlights a significant factor contributing to the challenging conditions they faced during the construction of the Canadian railroads. Many of these workers arrived with little, if any, financial resources, and the expectation for them to supply their own tools placed an additional burden on them. Without proper equipment, their ability to work efficiently was hampered, leading to increased hardships.

Furthermore, the lack of support and resources significantly affected their safety and working conditions, as they often worked in perilous environments without adequate tools or protective equipment. The idea that workers should be responsible for their gear underscores the inequitable treatment they received in contrast to their contributions to the railroad's construction.

In this context, the other options do not represent the conditions accurately. The notion that they were provided with all necessary tools contradicts the reality of their circumstances. Working within supportive communities and having flexible working hours are also misleading since many Chinese workers faced isolation and rigid, demanding schedules instead.