Ep 2. A Question of Loyalty

Asian Americans is a documentary series that traces the history of Asian Americans in the United States. Season 1 Episode 2 is titled A Question of Loyalty and runs for 57 minutes. This episode focuses on the role of Asian Americans in World War II, particularly in the context of Japanese incarceration in the United States.

The episode starts with a brief overview of the political situation leading up to World War II and the attack on Pearl Harbor. It then introduces the concept of loyalty and how it was used to discriminate against Japanese Americans. The episode features several personal stories of Japanese Americans who were interned in concentration camps during the war. They recount their experiences living in the camps and how they felt when their loyalty to the United States was questioned.

The episode also discusses the role of Asian Americans in the military during World War II. It features interviews with Asian American veterans who served in the war and the discrimination they faced both in the military and after they returned home. The episode highlights the contributions of the "442nd Regimental Combat Team," an all-Japanese American unit that became one of the most highly decorated units in the war.

As the episode progresses, it explores the aftermath of Japanese incarceration and how it impacted the Japanese American community. It features interviews with historians and experts who discuss the long-term effects of incarceration on Japanese Americans and how it shaped their identity as Americans.

Additionally, the episode discusses the topic of redress and reparations for Japanese American internment. It highlights the hard-fought battle for redress that lasted over four decades and ultimately led to President Ronald Reagan signing the Civil Liberties Act of 1988.

Overall, Asian Americans season 1 episode 2, A Question of Loyalty, is an emotional and insightful look at the experiences of Japanese Americans during World War II. The episode touches on themes of discrimination, loyalty, and identity, and provides a comprehensive overview of the historical context of Japanese incarceration in the United States.