Japanese to be Interned

14 December 1943 - Following the treasonous turn of the Nissei in Hawaii, President Dewey has authorized the internment of all Japanese within American borders. Congress lauded his decision, saying it would make America safer.

In the past, President Dewey had refused to sign such a bill stating that it "only served to divide rather than unite the nation in these dire times." The president did concede to legislation requiring the registration of all Japanese citizens with local law enforcement as a precautionary measure back in 1942. Congress had repeatedly stated that this was not enough.

With the Imperial Navy so close to our shores, there has been increased fear of Japanese invasion on the west coast. Anonymous reports of strange aircraft in California have only heightened the hysteria.

A large majority of America has come to doubt the patriotism of Japanese citizens, seeing potential spies in their midst. One has only to look to those collaborating with Imperial troops in Hawaii to understand this mistrust.

Ten camps have been planned for the relocation effort. 110,000 Japanese are expected to be transported in the coming months.

SOURCE: Courier-Journal