The other opinions that need to be taken into account are that our
Pacific fleet was weakended and there were large amounts of
Japanese-Americans located on the western coast of the US. There was
concern as to their loyalty. Using today as an example, a recent poll of
Arab-Americans showed that 43% oppose our attacks in Afghanistan.
I am currently reading MACARTHUR AND DEFEAT IN THE PHILIPPINES. Japanese military intelligence had agents all through the South West Pacific and other areas. When Japan attacked Hong Kong in December 1941, there were a number of saboteurs and snipers attacking British troops in Hong Kong. I think people don't know the amount of 5th column elements infiltrated in. Internment was an immediate and effective way of dealing with a dangerous situation.
General Joseph Stillwell, commander of central and southern California, in December 1941 wrote, "If the Japs had only known, they could have landed anywhere on the coast, and after our handful of ammunition was gone, they could have shot us like pigs in a pen." No one wanted that information getting to the Japanese Hight Command.
Judging yesterday's actions with today's attitudes does not give 20/20 hindsight.
Morgan
