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The Akune brothers: Siblings on opposite sides of war - Wendell Oshiro

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There are many stories that can be told about World War II, from the tragic to the inspiring. But perhaps one of the most heart-rending experiences was that of the Akune family, divided by the war against each other, and against their own identities. Wendell Oshiro tells the surprising story of this family split apart by war.

Harry, Ken and their siblings were of Japanese ancestry, but were all born in the United States. They also spent part of their lives growing up in Japan after their mother died. Yet when war broke out between the United States and Japan, Harry and Ken stayed in America rather than return to Japan, where the rest of their family was living. Why do you think they stayed?

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Wendell Oshiro
  • Director Brandon Denmark
  • Script Editor Alex Gendler
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

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