February 19 in American History

February 19, 1942 — Executive Order 9066

President Roosevelt signed the order that led to the forced relocation and internment of some 120,000 Japanese Americans — most of them U.S. citizens — into camps during World War II. Decades later the government formally apologized and paid reparations, acknowledging it as a grave injustice driven by "race prejudice, war hysteria, and a failure of political leadership."

Common Questions

What happened on February 19 in American history?

In 1942: Executive Order 9066. President Roosevelt signed the order that led to the forced relocation and internment of some 120,000 Japanese Americans — most of them U.S.

Why is February 19 significant?

President Roosevelt signed the order that led to the forced relocation and internment of some 120,000 Japanese Americans — most of them U.S. citizens — into camps during World War II. Decades later the government formally apologized and paid reparations, acknowledging it as a grave injustice driven by "race prejudice, war hysteria, and a failure of political leadership."

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