Description:
Displaced Persons and the Reshaping of American Immigration after World War II traces the journey of U.S. policy toward displaced persons (DPs) in post-war Europe, examining how America transformed from a nation resistant to accepting refugees to one that ultimately created a groundbreaking resettlement program.
Review Quotes:
"A fascinating and readable book on how the U.S., in a time of highly restrictive immigration policies, opened its doors to several hundred thousand displaced persons from Europe after World War II. In analyzing the complex interplay of factors involved, Haines raises important questions of relevance to refugee debates in America today."
Nancy Foner, Distinguished Professor Emerita of Sociology, Hunter College and Graduate Center, City University of New York
"Haines offers us a rich, original, and deeply researched analysis of the history of America's treatment of displaced persons in the aftermath of World War II. There is much to learn in the story Haines tells of the gradual evolution from denial, through delay, to resettlement. Understanding this legacy is of particular importance in the current moment as we consider our humanitarian obligations to those displaced by famine, violence, or persecution."
Caroline B. Brettell, Distinguished Professor of Anthropology Emerita, Southern Methodist University
"David Haines's new book on the creation of the Displaced Persons Act provides a nuanced overview of the forces impacting 20th century U.S. refugee policy, particularly the tensions between those who envisioned America as a place of refuge and those who sought to delay action on refugee issues. It will be a crucial text for students and scholars alike in the field."
Kristen Anderson, Professor of History, Webster University