Understanding Korematsu
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School
Georgia Military College *
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Course
1003
Subject
Political Science
Date
Feb 20, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
3
Uploaded by rodericaagamblee
Roderica Gamble
SSCI 1003
Understanding Korematsu
"Legacy of Korematsu v. United States: A Dangerous Narrative Retold" authored by Dean Masaru Hashimoto provides a critical analysis of the landmark Supreme Court case, Korematsu v. United States, which upheld the constitutionality of Japanese American internment during World War II. Hashimoto challenges the prevailing narrative surrounding the case, arguing that it
perpetuates a dangerous precedent of individual rights being sacrificed in the name of national security. The book examines the historical context in which the case arose, delving into the racist
attitudes and fear-driven policies that fueled the wartime hysteria against Japanese Americans. Hashimoto reveals the discriminatory practices and propaganda that were used to justify the mass incarceration of over 120,000 innocent individuals, the majority of whom were American citizens. Hashimoto offers a thought-provoking and compelling argument that demands a reevaluation of this pivotal Supreme Court case and its implications for democracy, justice, and the protection of individual rights. Hashimoto argues that the Supreme Court's decision in Korematsu v. United States was deeply flawed and a betrayal of constitutional principles, as it endorsed a government policy based on racial prejudice. He sheds light on the dissenting opinions of the justices who argued for the protection of individual rights, reminding readers of the importance of upholding civil liberties even in times of crisis. By challenging the traditional narrative, Hashimoto emphasizes the need to confront the dark chapters of American history and learn from past mistakes. He calls for a reassessment of the legacy of Korematsu v. United States, urging readers to recognize the dangers of sacrificing civil liberties for the sake of national security and to ensure that such injustices are never repeated in the future.
1)
Did you agree with the author, why or why not and include 3 examples to support your
answer.
When it comes to Hashimoto’s decision, I agree that the decision was flawed. The Supreme Court's decision in Korematsu v. United States upheld the constitutionality of Japanese internment during World War II. This decision has since been widely criticized for violating the rights of Japanese Americans and perpetuating racial discrimination. The author argues that the legacy of this decision undermines the principles of equal protection
and due process enshrined in the Constitution. The Korematsu decision created a dangerous precedent that justifies the violation of civil liberties in the name of national security. The author points out that this narrative can be used to justify discriminatory policies targeting various communities, such as Muslims or refugees, based on the perceived threat they pose to national security. The author highlights the negative impact of the Korematsu decision on the Japanese American community. Families were forcibly removed from their homes and incarcerated solely based on their ethnicity, leading to long-lasting psychological, economic, and social harm. By retelling this narrative, the author aims to shed light on the lasting consequences of the decision and caution against its potential repetition in the future.
2)
Did you find the article interesting-did you learn anything new.
The most interesting part is when the Supreme Court officially repudiated their decision in
the Korematsu vs. United States in 2018. The decision was changed due to the Trump vs.
Hawaii case which concerned the Trump administration’s travel ban targeting several predominantly Muslim countries. 3)
Did the court make the right decision.
After reading information about the case and reading Hashimoto’s point of view, my feelings towards whether the court made the right decision or not is neutral. Although the first decision was an error, changing the decision to make sure the people and civil liberties are protected. 4)
Did society/citizens make the right decision
Yes, the decision society made to make sure this was recognized as a grave injustice is right. Many people worked together to make sure the lessons and history of Korematsu v. United States are not forgotten. 5)
We are in 2024, as you reflect back on this situation how would have responded and handled the situation? Now in 2024 if the situation occurred again how would you address it?
If something like this were to occur during the modern time period, it would be important to defend civil rights and liberties for all individuals from the dangers of unchecked government power.
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