The legacy of Japanese American internment impacted America for decades, including Congress. Class members consider the tenure of Asian American representatives in Congress and how the legacy of World War II affected their service. Other suggested activities include debating statehood for American holdings in the South Pacific and discussion questions.

Concepts

asian americans, japanese-american internment, internment camps, world war ii, imperialism, american imperialism, pearl harbor, the house of representatives, the united states senate

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Instructional Ideas

• Create a plan for a Congressional member who must travel long distances to represent constituents in the Pacific
• Discuss how Japanese American internment camps affected future generations of Asian American politicians

Classroom Considerations

• The lesson is the second of a three-part Asian and Pacific Islander Americans in Congress unit 

Pros

• The lesson plan offers a variety of options to cover the material
• Role-playing options are engaging and develop empathy

Cons

• None

Common Core

RH.6-8.1 RH.6-8.10 RH.9-10.1 RH.9-10.10 RH.11-12.1 RH.11-12.10