Afterword

Abstract

This afterword discusses the three themes that coursed through Kurihara's life: high expectations, his distinctiveness, and a strong sense of justice. Throughout his life, Kurihara maintained high expectations of himself and his country. Meanwhile, the second theme in Kurihara's life was his distinctiveness. Several instances that set Kurihara apart from others of his generation include his conversion to Catholicism at a time when his family members and most Nikkei were Buddhists, while the relatively small numbers of Christians were primarily Protestants. The third theme of Kurihara's life, important because it explains his actions in the concentration camps and his refusal to attempt to regain his citizenship, was his strong sense of justice. He did what he believed was right and expected others, including the government, to do the same. Indeed, Kurihara's sense of justice caused him to protest vigorously and vociferously at Manzanar.