The Issei: The world of the first generation Japanese immigrants, 1885-1924

by Yuji Ichioka

A portrait of the first Japanese immigrants, known as the Issei. Leaving behind a still-traditional, feudal society for the wide-open world of America, the Japanese were long barred from holding citizenship and regarded for many years as unassimilable. Their story is one of suffering and struggle that has produced a record of courage and perseverance.

Genres: History, Race, Nonfiction

317 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1988

Reviews

[モーリー · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is a lot of detail in this book in terms of dates and names. A LOT. It does break up the narrative and make it difficult to read without nodding off. But I learned a great deal about immigration history and labor history, and it was fascinating to hear about the various roles of early Japanese immigrants. If you can get past the one-fact-after-another narrative style you won't be disappointed.

[J. Keck · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting account of the first emigrants from Japan referred to as the Issei, chronicling their challenges on the West Coast and other Western states. A good historical record and review, documenting the discrimination that these newcomers and their children faced. Provides a basis for understanding their experiences and the legacy to the "American Dream."

[Elizabeth · Rating 1 out of 5]

used hardcover library book