RE: [rehfans] Re: JAPAN was Howard and racism

[Mark E. Hall]

Alan D Glick wrote:  Some, but nowhere near the extent of those practiced regularly by the Germans and Japanese, and without the instigation and/or approval of those with ultimate responsibility.  I know you didn't want to get involved in a tit-for-tat disagreement but your statement demanded it. Alan Glick Well Alan, John Dower would probably disagree with you, ME: So much the worse for him or anyone who claims that American atrocities were of the same extent as that of our enemies.  Where are the 6 million innocent men women and children civilians that the big bad Americans tortured and killed due to their race.  I find it incredible that anyone would consider placing America's activities on the same par with the Nazis or Japanese.  There is no such thing as an idea so stupid that it can't find supporters among the intelligencia.   Well, Dower and Bix have both made the point, that if we want the Japanese to admit their crimes against humanity/democide/atrocities, etc., we should openly admit ours.  Particularly if ours are of a lesser nature.  But there is a reluctance on our part to do that.  Documents for a variety of events are still labeled as “Classified” or “National Secrets” 50 years or more after the event.  Maybe it’s warranted, but one has to wonder on some things if it really is.   So, given our reluctance to admit and discuss things, is it any wonder the Japanese don’t want to deal with it either?     ...and thinks the question is open on how much approval there was from those with "ultimate responsibility."  First, what is your rank level for "ultimate responsibility"?  Sergeant, or higher?  Or are we talking admirals and generals. ME: Ultimate responsibility clearly means the highest level of civilian government.   Whether Roosevelt ultimately knew or not, it is unlikely we will ever know.  But the fact it made LIFE meant millions of Americans did know.    As Dower points out, LIFE magazine ran a feature in 1943 with several Marines who were more than happy to provide photo opportunities and interviews on the whole head hunting issue.  To the best of Dower's knowledge and research, no disciplinary action was issued, and the US military made no comment what-so-ever on the matter.  LIFE carried no letters to the editor on the matter either.  So, if you got some evidence and proof for your statement on insitgation and approval, let's bring it up and get it out in the open.  Hell'uva lot of scholars would like to know, 'cause Dower has raised a very thorny issue on this one. ME: Sorry it's not up to me to prove the negative.  You show me proof that the highest levels of the US government instigated and approved these activities.  If you can't provide it, you're engaging in wishful thinking.   The fact the article appeared meant the US War office was aware of the activity, the article, etc.    I would agree with you it was not to the level of the Japanese and Germans ME: Glad to hear this but it seems to contradict what you've said earlier. I think I can accuse you of reading or exaggerating what I wrote too.  Read what I wrote in an earlier message.  Later, MEH