Winner of the Grawemeyer Award in ReligionA Los Angeles Times Bestseller“Raises timely and important questions about what religious freedom in America truly means.”―Ruth Ozeki“A must-read for anyone interested in the implacable quest for civil liberties, social and racial justice, religious freedom, and American belonging.”―George TakeiOn December 7, 1941, as the bombs fell on Pearl Harbor, the first person detained was the leader of the Nishi Hongwanji Buddhist sect in Hawai‘i. Nearly all Japanese Americans were subject to accusations of disloyalty, but Buddhists aroused particular suspicion. From the White House to the local town council, many believed that Buddhism was incompatible with American values. Intelligence agencies targeted the Buddhist community, and Buddhist priests were deemed a threat to national security.In this pathbreaking account, based on personal accounts and extensive research in untapped archives, Duncan Ryūken Williams reveals how, even as they were stripped of their homes and imprisoned in camps, Japanese American Buddhists launched one of the most inspiring defenses of religious freedom in our nation’s history, insisting that they could be both Buddhist and American.“A searingly instructive story…from which all Americans might learn.”―Smithsonian“Williams’ moving account shows how Japanese Americans transformed Buddhism into an American religion, and, through that struggle, changed the United States for the better.”―Viet Thanh Nguyen, author of The Sympathizer“Reading this book, one cannot help but think of the current racial and religious tensions that have gripped this nation―and shudder.”―Reza Aslan, author of Zealot
✔ Author(s): Duncan Ryūken Williams
✔ Title: American Sutra: A Story of Faith and Freedom in the Second World War
✔ Rating : 4.7 out of 5 base on (47 reviews)
✔ ISBN-10: 0674244850
✔ Language: English
✔ Format ebook: PDF, EPUB, Kindle, Audio, HTML and MOBI
✔ Device compatibles: Android, iOS, PC and Amazon Kindle
Readers' opinions about American Sutra by Duncan Ryūken Williams
Summer Phillips
Travel back in time with a historical epic that vividly recreates a bygone era. The author's meticulous research and engaging prose transport you to another world. Complex characters and intricate plots keep you enthralled from beginning to end. Each chapter reveals new insights into the period's culture and society. It's a captivating blend of history and fiction. Ideal for history buffs and lovers of epic sagas.
Aleena Tran
Discover the hidden stories behind famous works of art in this fascinating book. The author's detailed research and engaging writing bring each piece to life. Each chapter uncovers new insights into the artists' lives and creative processes. The narrative is both informative and captivating, offering a new perspective on familiar artworks. It's a must-read for art lovers and history buffs alike. Perfect for those who appreciate the stories behind the art.
Arabella Whitfield
Discover the inspiring story of a trailblazer who changed the world in this compelling biography. The author's detailed research and engaging writing bring the subject to life. Each chapter reveals new insights into the person's life and achievements. The narrative is both informative and deeply moving, offering valuable life lessons. It's a story that motivates and inspires. Perfect for history buffs and biography enthusiasts.
