Want of a Better Life

Many immigrants came to Hawaii and the United States in search of a better life. Some came to escape harsh political regimes, such as the reason for the Japanese colonialism in Hawaii. Most came on labor contracts that paid their passage and specified the terms of their employment. They left their families behind thinking they would work for several years, save money and then return to their home country where they would lead a good life. They had dreams when they came to America, most of which were shattered by the situation they found. The jobs were not what they were promised and they found themselves with low wage jobs that others did not want. They lived in poor conditions and were able to save little money. Most of them could not afford to save money to send for their families or return to...