Portrayal of the Japanese during World War II in the United States

This study analyzes the portrayal of the Japanese during World War II as they appeared in the mass media of the day. American films produced during the war years are evaluated, both live action and animated. The depiction of the Japanese in film is reflective of America's prevailing opinion and understanding of the Japanese at that time. Far more pervasive and accessible during the war were print images, including comic books, editorial cartoons and war posters; these are evaluated as well. The major themes identified are informing the public, denigrating the Japanese enemy in ways seldom seen for the German enemy, and the Office of War Information's efforts or lack of effort to control the hyperbole in the depiction of the Japanese.