The Chinese played an important role in the 19th century development of the California and Baja California coast and border region. They created the first abalone fishing industry along the coast and were a major part of the work force that transformed the border region into the productive Imperial Valley on the California side and the Mexicali Valley on the Baja California side. Chinese have always lived in separate communities, but their presence has greatly contributed to defining the culture of the region, particularly that of Mexicali.