Chapter 12, Manzanar, U.S.A. Summary and Analysis

Manzanar means apple orchard in Spanish. At one time Owens Valley was green with apple and pear orchards and alfalfa. Now, the water has been diverted to Los Angeles, turning the valley into desert. While Manzanar was active, some water was sent to support the gardens that helped to feed the people there. Within the fences there were a few untended apple and pear trees left. After Manzanar, the water was again re-diverted to Los Angeles.

As people move out of Manzanar to work or join the Army, the overcrowded congestion of people lessens, there is more space, and the barracks units become somewhat more like a home. Those who choose to stay within the camp do so because it is difficult to move, again, to another unknown location. After the Loyalty Oath...