Manzanar

Manzanar War Relocation Center was one of ten National Historic Sites where the US government incarcerated Japanese immigrants and Japanese American citizens during World War II. Located in Inyo County, California, Manzanar operated from March 1942 to November 1945, when over 11,000 detainees were held at the site. The center was located in a remote area, and detainees were subject to military-style discipline. The experience of detention was especially difficult for families, who were often separated from one another. Despite the challenges, many detainees made the best of their situation, forming close bonds with one another and working to create a sense of community. Today, Manzanar is a National Historic Landmark and a reminder of the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.