Japanese-American Immigration Archive, 1921

Iyenaga Sato Kenoske Boddy E. Manchester

Archive

[Japanese-American] [Immigration] Archive of 3 books on Japanese immigration to the United States. All published in 1921, these works provide a comprehensive look at the racial, economic, and diplomatic tensions that defined Japanese immigration to the U.S. in the early 20th century, offering valuable historical insights into exclusionary policies and their long-term implications. Archive includes:

[1] Iyenaga T., and Sato, Kenoske. Japan and the California Problem. New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons. First edition, 1921. Blue cloth boards with gilt text. 8vo. 178 pages. This book examines the complex and contentious issue of Japanese immigration to California in the early 20th century. Written in the aftermath of the 1913 California Alien Land Law, which restricted land ownership for Japanese immigrants, the book provides an analysis of the social, economic, and political dynamics that fueled anti-Japanese agitation. Iyenaga, a political science lecturer at the University of Chicago, and Sato, a former fellow at the same institution, explore the racial and nationalist ideologies underpinning exclusionary policies, as well as the broader implications for U.S.-Japan relations. Contents include an overview of Japanese traits and philosophy of life, emphasizing group consciousness, adaptability, and the so-called "proletarian chivalry." Other chapters include Japan’s foreign policy in Asia, the background of Japanese emigration, and the varied outcomes of migration attempts in countries such as Australia, Canada, and South America. A key focus is on the economic contributions of Japanese farmers in California and the challenges posed by restrictive land laws, which sought to limit their ability to establish permanent roots. One of the most significant sections of the book addresses the causes of anti-Japanese agitation, citing the “Yellow Peril” narrative, propaganda, nationalism, and fears of economic competition as central factors. Ex libris on title page. Overall very good condition.

[2] Boddy, E. Manchester. Japanese in America. Los Angeles. First edition, 1921. Green cloth boards with gilt text. 8vo. 198 pages. This book explores the history, social conditions, and political challenges faced by Japanese immigrants in the United States, particularly in California. The book provides a historical overview of Japanese-American relations, beginning with Commodore Perry’s expedition to Japan in 1854 and the subsequent establishment of diplomatic and commercial ties between the two nations. Boddy traces the trajectory of Japanese immigration to the U.S., detailing early settlements, occupations, and contributions to agriculture and industry. He also examines the racial and political tensions that shaped public attitudes toward Japanese immigrants, including the rise of anti-Japanese propaganda, legislative restrictions, and exclusionary policies. The book covers topics such as the economic impact of Japanese labor, assimilation efforts, intermarriage, and the influence of Japanese language schools and social organizations. Boddy discusses the Root-Takahira Agreement and the Gentlemen’s Agreement of 1907, which sought to limit Japanese immigration while preserving diplomatic relations. He also addresses the 1913 California Alien Land Law, which restricted land ownership among non-citizens, disproportionately affecting Japanese farmers.

[3] Present-Day Immigration with Special Reference to the Japanese. The Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, Volume XCIII. Philadelphia: The American Academy of Political and Social Science. First Edition, January 1921. Red cloth board with gilt text to spine. 8vo. 232 pages. Featuring contributions from various scholars, policymakers, and officials, this volume examines the challenges and policies of early 20th-century immigration to the United States, with a particular emphasis on Japanese immigration. This book offers a comprehensive review of the political, economic, and racial factors shaping U.S. immigration policy in the aftermath of World War I. The study is broken up into three parts. Part I includes U.S. relations with Japan and China, Japanese labor in California, exclusion laws, and racial tensions. Discussions include perspectives from diplomats, labor leaders, and academics regarding Japanese assimilation, land laws, and economic contributions. A key section addresses organized labor’s opposition to Japanese workers and California’s Alien Land Law of 1920, which restricted land ownership by Japanese immigrants. Additionally, discussions on "yellow peril" propaganda and racial prejudice provide insight into the climate of hostility toward Asian immigrants at the time. Part II shifts to the topic of Mexican immigration, exploring border relations, labor migration, and the role of Mexican immigrants in U.S. agriculture. Part III examines broader issues of assimilation, including the education of immigrant adults, the second generation of immigrants, and the role of public policy in facilitating or restricting immigration. The final section addresses proposed elements of a national immigration policy, including restrictions, quotas, and the economic impact of migration. Ex libris stamp on front pastedown. Overall very good condition.

Item #21577

Price: $325.00