Pearl Harbor

Definition

Pearl Harbor refers to the naval base located in Hawaii that was attacked by Japanese forces on December 7, 1941. This surprise military strike led to the United States' entry into World War II, significantly changing the course of the war and affecting Japanese American communities, particularly in relation to their representation in literature prior to this major event.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The attack on Pearl Harbor was a pivotal moment that shifted American public opinion from isolationism to support for entering World War II.
2. Over 2,400 Americans were killed in the attack, which resulted in significant damage to U.S. naval forces in the Pacific.
3. Pearl Harbor led to immediate fear and suspicion towards Japanese Americans, culminating in their widespread internment.
4. Many Japanese American writers used literature as a means of expressing their experiences and hardships during and after World War II, influenced by the events at Pearl Harbor.
5. The attack on Pearl Harbor is often remembered as a day that 'will live in infamy,' as described by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in his speech to Congress.

Review Questions

• How did the attack on Pearl Harbor change American literature related to Japanese American experiences?
  • The attack on Pearl Harbor marked a turning point that deeply influenced Japanese American literature. Following the attack, many writers began exploring themes of identity, loss, and resilience as they faced the injustices of internment. This shift led to a rich body of work that addressed both personal experiences and broader societal issues related to war and discrimination, creating a unique narrative within American literature.
• In what ways did Pearl Harbor influence public perception of Japanese Americans and their treatment during World War II?
  • The attack on Pearl Harbor dramatically altered public perception of Japanese Americans, fostering widespread suspicion and fear. Many Americans equated Japanese ancestry with disloyalty, leading to policies such as internment. This unjust treatment was reflected in contemporary literature, where authors began documenting their experiences and advocating for recognition of their rights and humanity amidst wartime hysteria.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of Pearl Harbor on Japanese American literature and identity post-World War II.
  • The long-term effects of Pearl Harbor on Japanese American literature and identity are profound. The internment experience became a central theme for many writers who sought to confront historical injustices and reclaim their narratives. This literature not only provided a voice for those affected but also helped shape a collective identity rooted in resilience and cultural pride. As authors continued to reflect on their heritage and experiences, they contributed significantly to discussions about race, identity, and belonging in America.

Related terms

Japanese Internment: The forced relocation and incarceration of around 120,000 Japanese Americans in camps during World War II, initiated after the Pearl Harbor attack.

Isolationism: A foreign policy approach wherein a nation avoids political or military alliances with other countries, which was prevalent in the U.S. before Pearl Harbor.

War Relocation Authority (WRA): The agency created by the U.S. government to oversee the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.