Japanese-American history began in the late 19th century when the first Japanese immigrants arrived in the United States, primarily seeking work in agriculture and railroads. By the early 20th century, communities formed, particularly in states like California, where they contributed to the economy and culture. However, during World War II, over 120,000 Japanese-Americans were forcibly relocated to internment camps due to fears of espionage. This unjust treatment led to significant legal and social changes, including the eventual acknowledgment of their suffering and reparations in the 1980s, highlighting the resilience of the Japanese-American community.