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McCarran-Walter Act (1952)

An act that allowed naturalization for Asian Americans, including Japanese and Koreans, but still retained a quota system for immigration.

Executive Order 9066

Authorized the mass removal of Japanese Americans to internment camps during WWII based on perceived military necessity.

'New Chinese American woman'

A concept established by Flora Belle Jan emphasizing the integration of Chinese women into American society, rejecting traditional roles and seeking economic independence.

'Double Victory' campaign

A WWII campaign that aimed for victory abroad against fascism and victory at home against racism.

Nisei

The second generation of Japanese Americans, often born in the U.S. and acculturated into American society.

'Fifth column threat'

Refers to the fear that Japanese Americans would aid Japan's efforts during WWII, particularly after Pearl Harbor.

Hirabayashi v. United States

A legal case where Gordon Hirabayashi challenged the curfew and internment orders imposed during WWII, claiming they violated his rights.

War Brides Act (1945)

Permitted wives and children of U.S. military personnel to immigrate to the U.S. after WWII.

Chain migration

A process where immigrants follow family, friends, or community members to a new country, facilitating their own migration.

The Secret War

A covert war involving U.S. support of Hmong fighters in Laos during the Vietnam War.

'Vietnam syndrome'

A term referring to the U.S.'s reluctance to engage in military conflict following the trauma of the Vietnam War.

'A Jap’s a Jap'

A phrase used by the government to justify the internment of Japanese Americans based on broad racial assumptions.

'Little Brown Brother'

Refers to Filipinos who assisted American forces during WWII, highlighting their role as allies.

Kibei

American-born Japanese who returned to Japan for cultural education before coming back to the U.S.

'No-no boys'

Japanese American individuals who failed the loyalty test during WWII and were subject to restrictions.

'American connection'

Refers to changing immigration legislation and the relationship between military service, adoption, and immigration.

'Domino theory'

The belief that the spread of communism in one country would lead to its spread in neighboring countries.

Ex Parte Mitsuye Endo (1944)

Supreme Court ruling that found the internment of loyal Japanese Americans unconstitutional.

'Paper sons and daughters'

Chinese immigrants who would claim to be sons or daughters of merchants to gain entry into the U.S. during strict immigration laws.

Volags

Voluntary agencies that assist refugees and immigrants in adjusting to life in the United States.

Military necessity

The justification used by the government for the internment of Japanese Americans, arguing it was needed for national security.

'Brain drain' (1965-1975)

The emigration of highly educated and skilled individuals from Asian countries to the U.S., primarily during and after the Vietnam War.

442 Regiment Combat Team

A U.S. Army unit composed mainly of Japanese American soldiers who served with distinction during WWII.

Cold War anxieties

The fears and political tensions arising from the rivalry between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, impacting immigration policies.

Nisei dilemma

The conflict faced by second-generation Japanese Americans who struggled with cultural identity and parental expectations while facing discrimination.