Quiet Americans is a digital storytelling project about Japanese American history — stories of injustice, resilience, and resistance. We explore the lessons we’ve learned and the ones we failed to, from the past.
This project is inspired by the life of one Nisei (a second-generation Japanese American) who went from incarceration camps to volunteering for the U.S. Army. He served in the Pacific, worked in post-war Japan as a Military Intelligence Service officer, and later fought in the Korean War. Yet, like so many in his generation, he rarely spoke about it. He carried his story quietly. We’re here to tell these stories, so we never forget.
Latest Stories
Ted Takayuki Tanouye
Ted T. Tanouye, a Torrance-born hero of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, fought for America while his own family was incarcerated during WWII. His courage, sacrifice, and Medal of Honor legacy continue to define Japanese American history.
Ozawa v United States
The only way Japanese immigrants could become naturalized was to become white.
Colonel Virgil Rasmuss Miller
Born in San Germán, Puerto Rico, Colonel Virgil R. Miller led the all-Japanese American 442nd Regimental Combat Team through some of the toughest battles of World War II. Respected for his courage and compassion, he stayed with his Nisei soldiers even when offered promotion elsewhere — and spent the rest of his life honoring their sacrifice.
Zenimura Day
At Gila River, Kenichi “Zeni” Zenimura built a real ballpark from desert sand, with bleachers, grandstand, box seats, even uniforms sewn from bedsheets. For thousands of incarcerated Japanese Americans, his field turned confinement into community, and despair into America’s favorite pastime.
The National Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism
A memorial for those who believed in the country that didn’t believe in them.
Ralph Lazo
To stand in solidarity with his friends, he incarcerated himself.
Trending Stories
442nd Regimental Combat Team
July 15, 1943 — the 442nd Regimental Combat Team was activated — an all–Japanese American unit that went on to become the most decorated in U.S. history. But their battle wasn’t just overseas. It was against prejudice at home.
Executive Order 9066
On February 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, authorizing the forced removal and incarceration of over 120,000 Japanese Americans. The order paved the way for one of the largest violations of civil liberties in U.S. history.
