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Facing the Mountain summary
Brief summary
'Facing the Mountain' is a powerful historical account of Japanese Americans who served in the U.S. Army during World War II while their families were unjustly interned in camps. It sheds light on their courage, resilience, and fight for justice.
Table of Contents
Facing the Mountain
Summary of key ideas
The Plight of Japanese-Americans During WWII
In Facing the Mountain by Daniel James Brown, we delve into the tumultuous period of World War II. The author brings to light the experiences of Japanese-Americans who served in the United States Military. These soldiers were also grappling with the fact that their families were held in internment camps back home.
The narrative begins with four young men - Fred Shiosaki, Kats Miho, Rudy Tokiwa, and Gordon Hirabayashi - and their struggle to reconcile their identities as both Japanese and American amidst a society that increasingly viewed them with suspicion and hostility after Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor.
Fighting on Two Fronts
The men joined the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, a unit composed mainly of Japanese-Americans. Fighting with unmatched bravery and distinction in Europe, they sought to prove their loyalty to the United States. While they were battling on European battlefields, their loved ones were confined in internment camps back in America, a result of executive order 9066, which ordered all Japanese-Americans to be relocated and detained in internment camps.
This situation was further complicated by a difficult choice posed by the government's "loyalty questionnaire", which demanded Japanese-American internees either affirm loyalty to the United States or face the risk of returning to a ravaged post-war Japan they barely knew.
Sacrifice Amidst Prejudice
In Facing the Mountain, Brown vividly narrates the heroic endeavors of these young Nisei (second-generation Japanese-Americans). Their harrowing experiences, immense sacrifices, and exceptional heroism weren't enough to shield them from prejudice, and they continued to face discrimination. Yet, they fought on, ever loyal to a nation that had essentially disowned them.
Gordon Hirabayashi, unlike the other three, chose to challenge internment as a violation of constitutional rights, thereby performing his national duty in a different, no less brave, manner. His case went to the Supreme Court, and while he did not win, his stance was a determined assertion of the Japanese-American's rightful place in their country.
A Testament to Enduring Human Spirit
Towards the end of the book, the liberating power of such an uncompromising stand is evident. Hirabayashi's convictions would eventually be vindicated by a posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom. The 442nd Regiment became one of the most decorated units in American military history, embodying courage and commitment in the face of relentless adversity.
In conclusion, Facing the Mountain is a poignant story of personal courage and collective resilience. It provides an emotional and historical exploration of an often-overlooked aspect of American history, showcasing the sacrifices and challenges of Japanese-Americans during World War II. This is a narrative that goes beyond the battlefield and barbed wire, embracing the human capacity for loyalty, courage, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
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What is Facing the Mountain about?
Facing the Mountain tells the incredible true story of Japanese American soldiers who fought for the United States during World War II, while their families were unjustly imprisoned in internment camps. Through extensive research and interviews, Daniel James Brown brings to light the bravery and resilience of these men as they navigate both the battlefield and the discrimination they face at home. It is a gripping and inspiring account of a lesser-known chapter in American history.
Facing the Mountain Review
Facing the Mountain (2021) by Daniel James Brown is a riveting account of the bravery and resilience of Japanese American soldiers during World War II. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- The untold stories of these soldiers, who faced discrimination and fought for their country despite being treated as enemy aliens, shed light on an important part of history often overlooked.
- Through meticulous research and interviews, Brown brings these individuals' experiences and sacrifices to life, creating a vivid and emotional narrative.
- The book explores themes of honor, loyalty, and the complexities of patriotism, providing a thought-provoking and inspiring read that challenges conventional notions of identity and belonging.
Who should read Facing the Mountain?
- History enthusiasts interested in World War II and Japanese-American internment
- Readers seeking stories of resilience, courage, and overcoming injustice
- Those curious about lesser-known stories of heroism during wartime
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Facing the Mountain FAQs
What is the main message of Facing the Mountain?
The main message of Facing the Mountain is the incredible resilience and courage displayed by Japanese American soldiers during World War II.
How long does it take to read Facing the Mountain?
The reading time for Facing the Mountain will vary depending on your reading speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Facing the Mountain a good book? Is it worth reading?
Facing the Mountain is a powerful book that sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of history. It is definitely worth a read.
Who is the author of Facing the Mountain?
The author of Facing the Mountain is Daniel James Brown.
What to read after Facing the Mountain?
If you're wondering what to read next after Facing the Mountain, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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