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Lest We Forget: Pearl Harbor - December 7, 1941

By John Fischer, About.com

6 of 8

Detention Centers Established - Military Law Governs Hawaii

Tanks on Beretania Street, Honolulu, Hawaii

Hawaii Army Museum Society
Arrests of residents who were considered dangerous or suspicious were begun by local police, Army Intelligence and the FBI. Many of Japanese descent were moved to detention centers but the number of residents of Japanese descent and those of other hostile powers was too great to allow the moving of everyone. A plan to evacuate up to 100,000 Japanese from Hawaii was considered, but rejected.

Military courts replaced the civil courts and military law was the law of the land for soldiers and civilians alike.

All residents were fingerprinted and required to carry identification cards at all times. Civilians were prohibited from holding more than $200 in cash. Businesses were likewise restricted.

Despite ongoing debate between the civilian and military rulers martial law continued in one form or the other until October 24, 1944. Even after the termination of martial law, Hawaii continued to be designated as a military area and curfews and blackouts remained until July 11, 1945.

John Fischer
Guide since 1997

John Fischer
Hawaii Travel Guide

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