During World War II, law-abiding Japanese-American citizens were herded into remote internment camps, losing their jobs, businesses and social standing, while an all-Japanese-American division fought heroically in Europe.
Interpretation
This quote highlights the injustice faced by Japanese-Americans during World War II, despite their courageous contributions to the war effort.
Tom Brokaw's quote underscores the stark contrast between the treatment of Japanese-American citizens and their bravery on the battlefield during World War II. As they were unjustly confined to internment camps, losing their livelihoods and societal roles, many served with honor in an all-Japanese-American military division defending the very country that wronged them. This paradox illustrates themes of discrimination, patriotism, and the complexity of national identity in times of conflict.
In practice
This quote can be used in a history class discussion about civil rights during wartime.
The WWII generation shares so many common values: duty, honor, country, personal responsibility and the marriage vow " For better or for worse--it was the last generation in which, broadly speaking, marriage was a commitment and divorce was not an option
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The shot heard round the world.
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It was necessary, as a black historian, to have a personal agenda.
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