I. Prewar Face

The pictures that follow show something of what Japan seemed to be before the war, and something of what-behind the facade of suave Oriental politeness-it was in stark reality.

Section I examines the pattern of Japanese behavior toward other peoples before attacking them.

 

JAPANESE DIPLOMATS Nomura and Kurusu emerge from the White House. While they were conferring with President Roosevelt, Jap carriers were preparing to hit Pearl Harbor.

JAPANESE NAVAL CADETS visit Philadelphia in 1940, when their ships were anchored off New York. After luncheon with the Mayor they toured the city (with cameras).

 

FISHING BOATS, some suspiciously equipped for long-range cruising, were operated out of Los Angeles by Japanese residents. Few Nisei were disloyal, however.

GRACIOUS HOSPITALITY was the fare dished up for vacationing American schoolteachers. The Japanese government wanted to impress them with Japanese culture.

THE SIGNING in 1940 of a treaty of "friendship"with Thailand proved their peaceful intentions in the. Far East, said the Japanese. In 1941 they invaded Thailand.