Lesson Plan, Video, Activity Asian Americans in Military Service during WWII
- Grade Level 9th-12th Grade
- Time Period 1930 - 1949
Introduction
Through the lens of the individuals who lived through this part of history, this lesson focuses on the different ways diverse Asian American groups experienced World War II. Students will explore the many parts of the war from the perspectives of Japanese, Korean, Filipino, and Chinese Americans through readings and film clips.
Learning Objectives:
Students will:
- Learn that not all Asian Americans shared the same experiences or perspectives on America’s entry into WWII
- Understand that all groups viewed the war as a time to pledge their loyalty to the nation as American citizens and to gain status through their contributions toward the war effort
- Learn that Japanese Americans also sought to demonstrate their loyalty to the nation, but the war led to their mass incarceration and financial ruin
Essential Questions
Why was defeating Japan a particular priority for people of Korean, Chinese, and Filipino descent in the United States, and especially for the Ahn family?
Why do you think Phillip Ahn would agree to portray film characters that negatively stereotyped another Asian group?
Why did many Asian Americans try to join the military even though they faced discrimination and racism in the U.S.?