Was the U.S. government justified in establishing camps for the relocation of Japanese-Americans?

Answer 1

First, please remember very few Japanese were forced to enter the camps. The directive, 9066, indicated they had to leave the West Coast and places would be provided for them if they had no place else to do (and most of them didn't have anywhere else to go, so they had little or no choice). They were allowed, for example, to go to the East Coast if they had jobs or friends who would vouch for them.

Also, do not fall into the trap of the myth that no Japanese were ever accused of helping the Japanese military or government. Not only were some accused but some were convicted and jailed for it.

Having said all of that, it was a racist and ignorant thing for the government to do and they were correct in apologizing for it. It was wrong.

Answer 2

They weren't justified at all. They did it out of fear and an irrational fear at that. They have yet to say it was wrong, but Reagan declared it a mistake and vowed thousands of dollars to each affected individual in the 1980's.
Despite the attack on Pearl Harbor and America's stupid decision to intern the citizens, Japan and America have a great relationship today.

Answer 3

That will be debated forever. At the time it seemed the smart thing to do. It is doubtful something like that would happen again.

It can be hard to view history through the lens of current public sentiment.

Answer 4

This question has been answered a few times before, the last time about two weeks ago. Do a search.