Manzanar - WWII Japanese Relocation Camp - One Minute History

In response to California's plea, FDR signed Executive Order 9066, leading to the relocation of over 110,000 Japanese Americans, most of whom were U.S. citizens. The Manzanar War Relocation Camp opened in 1942, housing over 10,000 detainees who lived, worked, and died there until its closure in 1945. Upon release, detainees received minimal support, often with nowhere to go. The site now stands as a historical reminder of this period.

What prompted the California government to seek help from President Franklin D. Roosevelt?

• Economic crisis

• Political unrest

• The Japanese problem

• Natural disaster

What was the purpose of Executive Order 9066?

• To authorize military action

• To provide financial aid

• To relocate Japanese Americans

• To establish new laws

How many people were housed at the Manzanar War Relocation Camp at its peak?

• Over 5,000

• Over 15,000

• Over 10,000

• Over 20,000

What activities did detainees engage in while at the Manzanar camp?

• They worked, played, gave birth, and died

• They only studied

• They only played

• They only worked

What did detainees receive when the Manzanar camp closed?

• A government apology

• A new home

• A job offer

• $25 and one-way transportation