DEFINITIONS

  • Generations: Japanese Americans have special names for each of its generations in the U.S.
    • Issei: born in Japan or Okinawa, emigrated to the U.S.
    • Nisei:  2nd generation, born in the U.S.
    • Sansei:  3rd generation, born in the U.S.
    • Yonsei: 4th generation, born in the U.S.
    • Gosei: 5th generation
    • Nikkei:  encompasses entire population across all generations
    • Kibei:  born in the U.S., educated in Japan, return to U.S.