Japanese-American Internment Flashcard

Front

What was Executive Order 9066?

Back

Executive Order 9066 was signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in February 1942, authorizing the removal of individuals of Japanese ancestry from designated military areas, leading to the internment of Japanese-Americans during World War II.

Front

What were the living conditions like in Manzanar internment camp?

Back

Living conditions in Manzanar were cramped, lacking privacy, and exposed to harsh weather. Internees lived in barracks with communal latrines and showers.

Front

What was the primary reason for the internment of Japanese-Americans during World War II?

Back

The primary reason was the fear of sabotage and espionage following Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor, which intensified racial prejudices against Japanese-Americans.

Front

How did the internment affect the property of Japanese-Americans?

Back

Many Japanese-Americans were forced to sell their properties at significant losses or abandon them altogether, as they had only days to decide what to do with their belongings.

Front

What percentage of Japanese-Americans interned were American citizens?

Back

About two-thirds of the Japanese-Americans interned at Manzanar were American citizens by birth.

Front

What activities did internees at Manzanar engage in to improve their living conditions?

Back

Internees established churches, temples, and clubs to foster community and improve their living conditions.

Front

What was the impact of the internment on Japanese-American identity?

Back

The internment experience significantly impacted Japanese-American identity, leading to a complex relationship with their American identity and cultural heritage.

Front

What was the public perception of Japanese-Americans during World War II?

Back

Public perception was largely influenced by fear and prejudice, leading to widespread suspicion and discrimination against Japanese-Americans.

Front

What legal challenges arose from the internment of Japanese-Americans?

Back

Legal challenges included cases like Korematsu v. United States, which questioned the constitutionality of the internment but ultimately upheld it during wartime.

Front

What was the long-term effect of Japanese-American internment?

Back

The long-term effects included a lasting impact on civil rights discussions in the U.S., reparations for survivors, and a commitment to prevent similar injustices.