Stan. S. Katz

Author of The Emperor and the Spy

San Diego Jewish Journal Holocaust Remembrance Edition May 2016 highlights the historical novel, The Emperor and the Spy and the outstanding achievements of Colonel Sidney Mashbir.

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The first page of article has a photo of General Douglas MacArthur.

It was gifted to Colonel Sidney Mashbir and has an inscription from MacArthur to Mashbir.

This inscription gives a sense of the magnitude of Mashbir’s contributions to the Allies’ Victory in Pacific during WWII.

The inscription reads:

To Mashbir

With admiration and cordial regard from his old comrade-in-arms.

Douglas MacArthur

Tokyo – 1945

 

The Antiquarian and the Creative Writing

by Natalie Jacobs April 29, 2016

Sixteen years ago, Stan Katz had never written a book. The longtime owner of several antiquarian bookstores, Katz knew a lot about books, and had an extensive collection of classics. But he never considered writing one himself, until he heard the story of Colonel Sidney Mashbir.

It was 1999 when someone came into one of Katz’s bookstores with a box of photos and documents.

“I didn’t have any idea what I was really looking at other than it looked really interesting,” he says from his home office in Oceanside.

Katz could immediately gather that the documents were related to intelligence before and during World War II.

“My mom was an Auschwitz survivor and so was her sister. I’ve long had an interest in WWII and what was going on and how it came to be. And then all of a sudden I had the papers of a spy who was very integral in winning WWII, I found out.”

And so began Stan Katz’s investigation into the life and work of Colonel Mashbir, a little-known historical figure from a dense and complicated time period. To help decipher the personal letters and photos from the box he acquired that day in his bookstore, Katz purchased Mashbir’s autobiography, itself an antiquarian rarity (Mashbir’s son later gave Katz the rights to it).

That he had no experience with creative writing didn’t stop Katz from exploring possible ways to use this information, which he immediately felt touched on an important and untold story about a great but mostly forgotten man. Katz spent about a year working on a screenplay, but it didn’t have the “fullness” Katz was looking for. So he settled on an historical novel. But why fictionalize the story if it is so compelling?

“First of all,” he says, “when it comes to spies, you never know the whole story. What happened was, over and over again, I was told by [Mashbir’s] son, by others, that history, in a lot of people’s mind, is boring, it doesn’t engage people.”

To Katz, this was primarily a spy story.

“I would come up with an action-packed espionage novel that’s 70 percent nonfictional in nature, 30 percent fictionalized.”

Katz says he tried to remain true to history even in the fictionalized parts, which required research into people and events that branched off from Mashbir himself. Take, for example, Charles Lindbergh.

“Whether he spoke to Mashbir or not at certain points,” Katz says, “wasn’t as significant as [the fact that Lindbergh] was leading an isolationist movement in America to prevent us from going into WWII. You’ll understand that Henry Ford and Charles Lindbergh were leading a massive effort to keep us out of WWII, regardless of what the Jews were going through.”

So instead of a screenplay, in order to explore the depth of not only this figure Mashbir but also the complications of the WWII era, Katz wrote a 500-page novel called “The Emperor and the Spy, The Secret Alliance to End WWII.” The editing process alone took five years.

Sidney Mashbir was Jewish, and very early on in the book, Katz has Mashbir confront that Jewish identity. He’s young and in the Arizona guard, about to embark on a mission to bring the Mexican revolutionary Poncho Villa to a meeting with General John J. Pershing. One of his colleagues says, “Mashbir, is that Jewish?” Mashbir brushes it off, ignoring the question.

“His grandfather was very Jewish Orthodox,” Katz explains. “He forced Mashbir’s mother to move from Tucson where there weren’t that many Jews at the time [late 1800s], to New York to marry a Jewish Russian immigrant. They married, they have a very unhappy marriage. They go back to the Southwest, they try to make it work but Mashbir sees this constant conflict between his Jewish parents and his grandfather who is Orthodox.

“I have to interpret this,” Katz concludes, from his interviews with Mashbir’s son and other genealogical research.

“He got into the military first in 1904. How were Jews treated in our country? How were they seen? Most wouldn’t even be broadcasting that they’re Jewish.”

After a series of military starts and stops, in 1942 General Douglas MacArthur tapped Mashbir to lead the Allied Translator and Interpreter Section (ATIS) within the Southwest Pacific Area. This was a group of nearly 5,000 intelligence agents working to investigate Japanese war crimes.

Katz pulls out a narrow pamphlet filled with names. It’s a list of all the Japanese enemies identified by ATIS; Mashbir’s personal copy.

Katz discovered that Mashbir’s greatest ally in the Japanese government was Emperor Hirohito’s right-hand man, Prince Iyesato Tokugawa.

“There was an intimacy between Mashbir and Tokugawa,” Katz says, holding up a greeting card sent to Mashbir from Tokugawa, and flipping to a photo of the two at a “prestigious luncheon” in Japan.

“[Mashbir] said Prince Tokugawa was so important that if he hadn’t died, the Japanese would not have allied with the Axis Powers. [Mashbir] said that in his autobiography.”

Katz makes the connection that three months after Tokugawa died, in June of 1940, Japan allied with Germany.

“What Mashbir and the war in the Pacific taught was there was a rising fanaticism who felt they were superior to other races and other creeds and they were going to take over by force. The story depicts how the counter effort was – here are individuals, statesmen, who are trying to use cultural, art, science, music interchange, student exchanges, all these different means to create bridges between people so as to prevent conflict and not let militant extremists, close-minded, narrow-minded people, take over.”

For Katz, the fact that Mashbir himself was ultimately unsuccessful in that effort does not diminish his legacy or the importance of diplomacy.

“Mashbir’s insight into the Japanese culture was such that he was able to guide General MacArthur and other leaders, when the war ended, how best to treat occupied Japan and how best to lead it so that it could become the democratic country that we could be allies with.

“We went into a country like Iraq,” Katz says, bringing the argument to present day, “without really understanding the culture, the leadership, how to move forward, and the country fell apart into civil war. The same thing could have happened in Japan.”

Since publishing “The Emperor and the Spy,” Katz has also completed a 300-page online timeline, which chronicles Mashbir and many of the people he came in contact with throughout his life. That document includes rarely seen photographs of Japanese leaders and members of the U.S. military and general society, from documents that Katz has added to his personal collection throughout the years. One of his goals for the book is to see it used in high school and college courses.

“One of these days, it will be used in teaching a very strong message about why the state of Israel happened, how the Holocaust preceded, and about an American Jewish spy who had major impacts in us winning a war. I think he’ll be a household name.”

Katz’s next book project will be a biography on Prince Tokugawa.

Colonel Sidney Mashbir is buried at Fort Rosecrans in Point Loma. Details on the fictionalized account of his life can be found online at TheEmperorAndTheSpy.com

 

 

The second page of article shown below may be hard to read.

For easier reading, the above Transcription was given.

 

 

Front cover: May 2016 San Diego Jewish Journal Holocaust Remembrance Edition

 

BELOW is a Letter to the Publisher of San Diego Jewish Journal, Mark Moss. This letter led to the above magazine article being written.

Dear Dr. Mark Moss,

I hope all is well.

It’s been years since we last met. We have some mutual friends. We spoke to one another at a couple of festive gatherings. Just like yourself, I’m a Dentist whose career went in a very different direction.

Last time we spoke, I mentioned an historical novel I was working on, that had strong connections to Jewish History. You kindly offered to include an announcement or an article linked to the release of this book in the San Diego Jewish Journal.

After sixteen years of writing and research this novel and a website linked to it, are finally completed.

Below are some of the details of this project:

-The title of the novel is, The Emperor and the Spy. It is quite unique, in that it was inspired by my acquisition of the secret personal papers, official documents, and photographs of an American Military Intelligence Officer.

This novel has a strong Jewish theme for various reasons:

1- I’m Jewish and my mother was an Auschwitz survivor.

2- The novel depicts the events leading up to and during the Holocaust, and emphasizes the need for the creation of the State of Israel.

3- The main protagonist in the novel is an unsung hero, an Intelligence agent of Jewish heritage, named Colonel Sidney Mashbir. This master spy allied with top Japanese leaders during the 1920s and 1930s, including members of the Japanese Royal Family. They valiantly attempted to prevent hostilities in Asia, and prevent conflict between their two nations and the outbreak of WWII.

4-Regrettably, when WWII erupted, this intelligence agent of Jewish Heritage, took a major role in defeating the Axis Powers in the Pacific Theater of War. The significant role he took in winning that war will bring pride to the Jewish community, as well as recognition and respect from the general American Public. Colonel Mashbir and the large intelligence organization, ATIS (Allied Translator and Interpreter Section), that he commanded shortened that war by two years!

5- It was surprisingly to discover that one of the peace-loving Japanese leaders who allied with this spy (who is prominently highlighted in the novel), took a pivotal role in the creation of demilitarized “safe zones” in China, that helped save the lives of tens of thousands of Jewish refugees fleeing the Holocaust. These “safe zones” also provided haven to hundreds of thousands of Chinese civilians during the years leading up to and during WWII.  This Japanese statesman, Prince Iyesato Tokugawa, an unsung humanitarian hero, put his life in great danger resisting the militarists in his own country and elsewhere, who wanted war.

6- An extensively documented 125 page Application in the name of Prince Iyesato Tokugawa has been created. This application is going to be sent to the commemorative organization in Israel, Yad Vashem. The goal being, that this Japanese statesman receive the honorary recognition of Righteous Among the Nations. This information will also be sent to other humanitarian organizations such as the U.N. to acknowledge this amazing individual.

You’re invited to explore the website, TheEmperorAndTheSpy.com to learn more. This website displays many of the historical documents that inspired the novel.

Please let me know how we might proceed to bring out this story in the San Diego Jewish Journal, honoring unsung heroes from the past.

Thank you so much for your time and attention,

Stan S. Katz

P.S.

Attached to this Letter is the following:

The National Veterans’ Organization, JAVA (Japanese American Veterans Association), reviewed my website’s historical materials and read the novel. They wished to show their support by highlighting the Release of the novel and the website on Page 17 of their 2016 Summer Quarterly Newsletter. That article is included with this email.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Emperor and the Spy, was one of two books highlighted during academic/diplomatic event sponsored by the Prime Minister’s Office of Japan and hosted by San Diego World Affairs Council

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On June 22nd, 2016 the Prime Minister’s Office of Japan sent a delegation of historians, diplomats, military experts, and professors from Japan to America on a goodwill diplomatic/educational tour. They held panel discussions on the rise of international tensions in the Southeast Asian Pacific region, issues involved and possible solutions. The event took place on the campus of the University of San Diego, at the Joan Kroc Institute of Peace and Justice . . . The historical novel, The Emperor and the Spy, honors many Japanese leaders who attempted to prevent World War Two in the Pacific. The author of this novel was invited to do a book signing at this gathering. A copy of the novel was inscribed by the author to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. This copy was given to Kenko Sone the head of the visiting Japanese delegation. Kenko Sone also held the position of Director of Global Communications for the Office of the Prime Minister. Kenko Sone kindly offered to present the inscribed gifted copy to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe upon his return to Japan. Kenko Sone is currently the Consul General to the Consulate-General of Japan in Los Angeles.

Further description of the above event is given below:

East Asian Geopolitical Realignment, 1930’s and the Present

Hosted by San Diego World Affairs Council

Date and time

Wednesday, June 22, 2016 · 3:15 – 7:30pm PDT

Location

Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice, University of San Diego

San Diego, CA 92110

Description

The San Diego World Affairs Council is proud to announce a special event to discuss East Asian geopolitical realignment and regional power shifts in the 1930’s and the present.

The book Fifteen Lectures on Showa Japan: Road to the Pacific War in Recent Historiography structures Panel 2 and is available for discounted sale below and at the event through the sponsorship of the Japan Library.

AGENDA:

Registration: 3:15 PM

Introductions: 3:40 PM

Panel 1: The Role of Japan and its Allies/Regional Partners in Maintaining Peace and Stability in Asia (3:50 – 5:20 PM)

This panel session will examine how Washington, Seoul, Hanoi and other regional partners can work together to maintain regional stability as an increasingly assertive China is rapidly expanding its sphere of influence. While the US bilateral alliances with Japan and South Korea remain vital cornerstones of security in Northeast Asia, China’s challenge to the status quo could escalate tensions and may lead to a crisis in the region. With this as a backdrop, these three experts will provide insights as to how Asian countries are reacting to recent developments in the geopolitical landscape – namely, the South China Sea issue and North Korean nuclear development/missile testing. They will offer their views about how tensions can be diffused to avert a military conflict in the region and create a more stable and secure East Asia.

 

Moderator:

Tosh Minohara (Kobe University)

 

Panelists:

Donald K. Emmerson (Stanford University)

 

Kan Kimura (Kobe University)

 

Chisako Masuo (Kyushu University)

 

Panel 2: Road to the Pacific War in Recent Historiography (5:30 – 6:30 PM)

This panel discussion will celebrate the publication of the book ‘Fifteen Lectures on Showa Japan: Road to the Pacific War in Recent Historiography’. Two Japanese authors whose essays are featured in the book will analyze the events that led to war between the United States and Japan 75 years ago from multiple angles, such as international relations, military balance, Japanese domestic politics and Japanese foreign policy. Professor Doak will moderate the discussion and give an international perspective to this historical analysis

 

Moderator:

Kevin M. Doak (Georgetown University)

 

Panelists:

Haruo Tohmatsu (National Defense Academy of Japan)

 

Kota Watanabe (Teikyo University)

 

Public Reception – Garden of the Sky (6:30 – 7:30 PM)

Hors d’oeuvres and soft drinks

 

During the event we’ll also promote the sale of 2 topically-relevant books:

Fifteen Lectures on Showa Japan: Road to the Pacific War in Recent Historiography
Edited by Tsutsui Kiyotada
Translated by Noda Makito and Paul Narum
***the basis for Panel 2***
sponsored by Japan Library

The Emperor and The Spy: The Secret Alliance to Prevent WWII
by Stan S. Katz
An historical novel based on the brilliant life, exciting exploits and personal papers of American Colonel Sidney Mashbir, who, as a spy, secretly allied with top leaders in Japan, including members of the Japanese Royal Family, in an heroic attempt to prevent conflict between their nations and the outbreak of World War II. On May 18, 2016 an article on Mr. Katz and his book appeared in the San Diego Union Tribune. Mr. Katz will be on hand to sign copies of his book.

Our event is the cusp of the Society for Historians of American Foreign Relations conference at the University of San Diego (June 23 – 25, 2016).

Organized by

San Diego World Affairs Council

Credit is due to various volunteers from the San Diego World Affairs Council (SDWAC).

Here are two of those who helped organize the event: David Edick Jr. President of  SDWAC and U.S. Ambassador Reno L. Harnish III

 

 

 

 

Osher Lifelong Education Institute – UCSD Presentation. Remarkable story, the alliance between a patriotic U.S. Intelligence Agent, Colonel Sidney Mashbir, and a humanitarian Japanese International Statesman, Prince Iyesato Tokugawa, who heroically delayed and attempted to prevent WWII in the Pacific.

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Osher Lifelong Education Institute – University of California San Diego

January 8th, 2020 the author of historical novel The Emperor and the Spy & the biography The Art of Peace gave a presentation on significant unknown events linked to U.S. Japan relations during the first half of the twentieth century. Highlighted is the fascinating career of the the intelligence agent, Colonel Mashbir, and the outstanding diplomatic and political achievements of Prince Iyesato Tokugawa. Spotlighted is the close friendship and alliance of Colonel Mashbir and Prince Tokugawa.T

The below one hour video that was followed by a one hour non-recorded question and answer session with inquiries from the one hundred attendees.  Hope you enjoy.

Tokugawa & Komatsu, Forgotten Heroes – Until his passing in 1940, Prince Iyesato Tokugawa held back WWII in the Pacific – Tokugawa’s diplomatic legacy lived on after WWII ended, when his protégé, Takashi Komatsu, guided the US and Japan to again become friends and allies.

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                             Prince Iyesato Tokugawa (1863-1940)      Takashi Komatsu (1887-1965)

Prince Tokugawa was the Heir to the last Shogun, a dynasty that had ruled Japan for 260 years. He served as President of Japan’s Upper House of Congress, was President of the Japanese Medical Association. And held many other leadership positions, shaping international and domestic policies of Japan. Based on his humanitarian accomplishments, US newspapers called him The Prince of Peace. It was only after his passing in 1940, that Japan was pressured by militants to enter WWII against the Allies.

Announcing an important new biographical work released in late 2024:

The Cherry Blossom Weeps for Me:  A Quest for the Dawn of Peace, by James Mikel Wilson.

This illustrated biography highlights the untold story of how Prince Tokugawa’s outstanding legacy lived on through his impressive protégé, the Japanese American statesman, Takashi Komatsu. Komatsu relit the torch of friendship and alliance between the US and Japan following WWII. Working with influential American leaders such as General MacArthur, John D. Rockefeller III, and Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, as well as many others.

Print and Kindle Edition

 

When the author, James Mikel Wilson, first contacted me several years ago, it was a pleasant surprise. Wilson had read the The Emperor and the Spy, I’d written and was familiar with the illustrated Prince Tokugawa biographies that followed: The Art of Peace and The Art of Diplomacy. Those biographies described Komatsu during the years proceeding WWII. However, Wilson felt Komatsu deserved a biography to reveal how significant Komatsu was during the decades following WWII in re-kindling the strong friendship and alliance between the US and Japan.

“The Cherry Tree Weeps For Me” gives an intimate view of US / Japanese relations during the first 70 years of the 20th Century, beginning the journey through the eyes of twelve old, Komatsu. Who immigrated alone to America to seek his fortune. He would become a vital bridge between the East and West, meeting with Prime Ministers, Generals, US Presidents, and Secretaries of State. While maintaining his integrity and humility. This biography is also a testimonial to Monmouth University in Illinois, which Takashi Komatsu and the James Wilson attended. The book highlights many other alumni from that fine learning institution who took heroic and humanitarian roles linked to international relations – You’ll likely find yourself becoming a friend of Takashi Komatsu, seeing his life devoted to the highest values of humanity: joy, peace, love, and mutual respect.

Circa 1935: Takashi Komatsu takes the place for Prince Tokugawa, who was unable to attend the above diplomatic event. Source: America-Japan Society Press Photo [color enhanced].

Below is a description from the back of the above Photo.

American “Embassy Day” held in Tokyo to Honor New American Consul General and Secretaries. Takashi Komatsu, pinch-hitting for Prince Tokugawa as toastmaster at a recent luncheon of the America-Japan Society held in the Imperial Hotel. This event honored the Consul General and Mrs. George A. Makinson (of San Francisco), first Secretary of the Embassy and Mrs. Stuart E. Grummon (of Newark, N.J.), and Second Secretary and Mrs. W.T. Turner (from Emory, Georgia). Mr. Komatsu [standing], and to his right: Mrs. Makinson (with fur), Mr. Grummon and Mrs. Turner: and to his left: Mrs. Grummon and Consul General Makinson (baldish).

Mr. John L. Curtis, Far Eastern manager of the National City Bank of New York, said he was glad to return to Tokyo, his second home, after a summer in New England. Non-Embassy guests present included Mr. John Moorris, chief of the Far East bureau of the United Press, from Shanghai: Mr. Archibald T. Steele, of the Far East Bureau of the Chicago Daily News; and Captain Maxwell representing the Chicago Tribune, en route from the United States to Berlin via Siberia.

 

In many ways, The Cherry Tree Weeps for Me, is a sequel to the below books.

 

Mashbir was a brilliant US intelligence agent. During the 1920 and ‘30s, he allied with Prince Tokugawa, promoting amity between their nations. It was only after Tokugawa’s passing that militants pushed Japan into war. 

April, 1937: Imperial Hotel, Tokyo, following a Pan Pacific Club luncheon hosted by Prince Iyesato Tokugawa to honor Colonel Sidney Mashbir’s return visit to Japan. Tokugawa is seated adjacent to his American friend and ally, Mashbir. Accompanying them are several of Tokugawa’s other Japanese and American advisers. There was a rising militant movement in Japan and Mashbir was on a dangerous undercover mission. During Mashbir’s visit, Tokugawa heroically placed his own life in danger by sharing top secret intelligence information with Mashbir to bring back to the U.S. that might have preserved peace between their nations. However, their efforts were undermined. The novel The Emperor and the Spy highlights this untold story.

  • Despite their best efforts, WWII could not be stopped….Colonel Mashbir was then recruited by General Douglas MacArthur to command a top-secret intelligence organization ATIS (Allied Translator and Interpreter Section). ATIS grew to almost 5,000 members, and significantly shaped the successful Allied battle strategy in the Pacific, dramatically shortening the war. ATIS was mainly composed of thousands of first generation Japanese Americans (Nisei) who patriotically volunteered to serve under Mashbir’s command, translating and interpreting strategic military documents coming in from the Pacific battlefields. While also interrogating Japanese prisoners of war. And many also heroically went into the battlefield to serve at the front lines. Based on their major contributions, Colonel Mashbir felt the injustice of Presidential Executive Order 9066 that resulted in the illegal imprisonment of  loyal Japanese. Approximately 112,000 persons were sent  to “relocation centers” that would be their home for the duration of the war. Nearly 70,000 of the evacuees were American citizens. There were no charges of disloyalty against any of these citizens. Nor was there any means they could appeal their loss of property and personal liberty. 
  • Colonel Mashbir swore that once the war was over, he would devote himself to letting the world know of the major contributions made by patriotic Japanese Americans who had served under his command in ATIS.
  • Colonel Mashbir took a major role in ending WWII and orchestrated the Japanese Surrender Signing Ceremony. Thereby avoiding a major destructive battle on mainland Japan.
  • Mashbir arranged for General MacArthur and Emperor Hirohito to meet, to plan the rebuilding of Japan and the rekindling of US / Japan friendship. Mashbir served as the translator and facilitator.

 

 Back cover: The Emperor and the Spy

Published 2015, 2017, 2019

Available in Print, Kindle, and Audiobook

 

Here are biographies that highlight the fascinating life of Prince Iyesato Tokugawa.

  Published 2019

KINDLE EDITION

DESCRIPTION OF BOOK COVER PHOTO:

When WWII ended, for various geopolitical reasons there was an urgent agenda in place to leave behind the details of the period leading up to that tragic conflict. And instead, the goal was to expediently reestablish Japan and the U.S. as friends and allies. This resulted in much of the significant peaceful Japanese diplomatic engagement during the prior decades to that war being lost, forgotten, or destroyed – For instance, the above book cover photo comes from what might well be the last remaining crumbling copy of a 1934 Japanese magazine. It presents Prince Tokugawa receiving an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from the University of Southern California. The president of the university Dr. Rufus B. von Kleinsmid hands the certificate to Prince Tokugawa. (Left to right in photo: Prince Iyesato Tokugawa; Iyemasa Tokugawa; George I. Cochran; Dr. Rufus B. von Kleinsmid.)

This presentation took place during a special luncheon given March 19, 1934 in Los Angeles, hosted by George I. Cochran, the president of the school’s Board of Trustees. Prince Iyesato Tokugawa was accompanied by his son Iyemasa, the newly appointed Japanese Minister to Canada.

The Los Angeles Times stated that this honorary degree was given to Prince Tokugawa “in recognition of distinguished service in international statesmanship,” and for his “support of many philanthropic and educational movements.”

In accepting the honor, Tokugawa respectfully responded, 

“He wished to receive it in the name of the Japanese people as a whole rather than as a personal distinction.” 

The Los Angeles Times stated that a banquet dinner was to be hosted by the Japan-America Society of Los Angeles to honor Prince Tokugawa’s visit. The Governor of California and the former Mayor of Los Angeles planned to attend.

Surprisingly, the University of Southern California currently has no record of this event having taken place. 

And it’s an intriguing coincidence that during the following year, 1935, President Franklin D. Roosevelt was also awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from USC, on October 1, 1935. Prince Tokugawa and President FDR knew each other well. During Tokugawa’s 1934 visit to the U.S. the  two men met and discussed ways in which they could maintain amity between their nations. Prince Tokugawa invited FDR to visit Japan with hope that a face to face meeting between US and Japanese leaders including the Japanese Royal Family might strengthen their friendship and understanding.

*The publication of THE ART OF PEACE was brought to the attention of the leadership of USC, revealing significant forgotten history about their school from over 85 years earlier – It is exciting that not long afterwards, USC awarded honorary degrees to former USC Nisei (first generation Japanese-American) students who had not been allowed to continue their education at USC following their release from internment camps. In which they had been unfairly imprisoned during WWII – Many of these former students were deceased, so their honorary degrees were conferred to their families. There is a USC Annenberg Media article about this college degree presentation titled: “President Folt conferred honorary degrees to the families of 33 former Nisei students.” Written by Clara Preve-Durrieu, April 06, 2022. Thus correcting an injustice from the distant past.

 

The ART OF PEACE was republished in a General Reader Edition titled: THE ART OF DIPLOMACY.

(Note:  THE ART OF PEACE  has an additional 100 pages of historical notes to assist researchers.)

Print and Kindle Edition

 

Our times need inspiring role models in the art of peaceful and respectful international diplomacy – It would improve international relations in Asia to recognize Prince Tokugawa’s major humanitarian achievements as President of the Red Cross Society of Japan, promoting the creation of demilitarized safe zones in China. These havens helped protect the lives of hundreds of thousands of Chinese civilians during the years leading up to and during WWII. They also served as refuge for tens of thousands of European Jews fleeing the Holocaust. 

During 1921-1922, Prince Tokugawa headed the Japanese Delegation to the Washington Naval Arms Limitation Conference, hoping to maintain peace.

To combat racism, during the 1920s and ’30s, Prince Tokugawa incorporated Lincoln Essay Contests into all Japan’s public schools and universities. Giving awards to students who wrote the best essays honoring the humanitarian principles of Abraham Lincoln.  

Prince Tokugawa took a guiding role in 1912 Japanese gifting of Cherry Trees to Washington, D.C. evolving into the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Our capital’s largest annual international goodwill celebration. This achievement has also surprisingly not yet been recognized.

The timing is right to bring deserved international attention to these outstanding statesmen: Prince Tokugawa and Takashi Komatsu.

 

Reader Praise for:

The Emperor and the Spy

The Art of Peace

The Art of Diplomacy

The Cherry Tree Weeps For Me

 

Have you ever wondered how US and Japan re-established their friendship and alliance following the trauma of WWII? Here’s a new biography that honors an amazing Japanese American statesman, Takashi Komatsu, who guided this major achievement.

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The Cherry Tree Weeps for Me: A Quest for The Dawn of Peace chronicles one man’s lifelong pursuit of peace before and after the Pacific War. Takashi Komatsu’s incredible story is told alongside Japan’s pre- and post–WWII history and the country’s remarkable rebirth as a vibrant democratic global economic powerhouse. Komatsu’s life journey from a 12-year-old immigrant living in New York City’s YMCA  to his delivery of Harvard’s 1911 commencement address—proves that real life can be stranger than fiction.

Komatsu’s rose to become the head of a large shipping company in Japan, allied with Prince Tokugawa heir to the last Shogun and the US Ambassador to Japan Joseph Grew, and became a respected international businessman and statesman. Risking incarceration and assassination, Komatsu made choices that defied military rulers and right-wing extremists as they edged Japan toward war and devoured a democracy.

Within days of the war’s end, inconceivable events led General MacArthur, the Supreme Commander of the Occupation Forces, to seek Komatsu’s aid to help rebuild Japan and restore amity with the United States. Repairing friendship between the two countries was complex and daunting. Komatsu went far beyond this, forging relationships with US presidents, ambassadors, scholars, philanthropists, and leaders in the public and private sectors of both Japan and the United States. His legacy is a powerful reminder of the importance of tenacity, empathy, and understanding in international affairs, offering an intimate view of US/Japanese relations during the first 70 years of the 20th Century.

If you enjoy books like Malcolm Gladwell’s The Bomber Mafia, you’ll love The Cherry Tree Weeps for Me. Find out what transpired after the devastation and one man’s unsung influence that restored a stolen democracy.

 

About the Author

Born during World War II in Moline, Illinois, James Mikel Wilson grew up in the lingering dark shadows of that era. His father and uncles fought in WWII, moved on with their lives, and rarely ever discussed it.

Over four decades, Wilson’s work in international marketing and personal travel took him to five continents, thirty-three countries, and forty-seven states. He craved to understand the history, culture, and politics of each place visited. Wilson’s lingering itch to better grasp the fuses that sparked WW II in Europe and Asia led to two meticulously researched books.

His first book, Churchill and Roosevelt: The Big Sleepover at the White House (2015), earned an Author Academy Award. Wilson was invited to participate in a book signing during America’s National Churchill Museum’s 50th-anniversary celebration. In 2020, the International Churchill Society’s annual meeting in London featured the book and a reading of Alliance, a stageplay version of the book.

All book sale proceeds from “The Cherry Tree Weeps for Me: A Quest for The Dawn of Peace” will be donated to Monmouth College, located in Monmouth, Illinois, the alma mater of the Author and of Takashi Komatsu.

 

Publication date November 1st, 2024.

Available through the links below:

Amazon eBook: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DHV1RPHH  

Amazon Paperback: : https://www.amazon.com/dp/1662952775

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/9781662952777     On this site, enter the author name James Mikel Wilson or Book Title and then select eBook or paperback.

 

READER PRAISE FOR THIS BOOK

“James Mikel Wilson’s The Cherry Tree Weeps for Me is a gripping journey through time. With the skill of a seasoned storyteller, Wilson paints a vivid portrait of a man who straddled two worlds, from Takashi Komatsu’s beginnings as a twelve-year-old boy venturing overseas to seek his destiny to his pivotal role in shaping Japanese-American relations in the wake of World War II. Meticulously researched and utterly absorbing, Wilson’s book delves deep into the complexities of Komatsu’s life. What emerges is a tale of resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to peace and democracy. The Cherry Tree Weeps for Me is not just a historical account; it is a testament to the power of compassion, courage, and diplomacy in the face of adversity, a poignant story that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.”

—Monte Francis. Multiple Emmy Award-winning journalist and News Presenter, France 24; Author of Ice and Bone and By Their Fathers Hand.

 

“Wilson puts on full display in this book his liberal arts education to tell the story not only of the unsung hero, Takashi Komatsu, who was educated at Wilson’s and my alma mater, but of the history of the relationship between Japan and the United States. Wilson ties together these threads and alerts us to the incredible coincidences. These included living next door to a curious younger boy in Monmouth, Illinois, who would later become responsible for one-half of the US occupation of Japan and, by happenstance, cross paths with Komatsu in Tokyo after 35 years of separation. They would collaborate to begin reconstruction, and their sons would become Monmouth College classmates after the war.”

—Dan Cotter. Author of The Chief Justices –The Seventeen Men of the Center Seat; Member of the Board of Trustees of Monmouth College, and 2024–25 President of the National Board of Bar Presidents.

 

“Unearthing the obscure life of an unsung hero, Wilson’s newest book masterfully unravels how Komatsu emerges as a catalyst for unity and prosperity in post-WWII Japan. The Cherry Tree Weeps for Me provokes introspection of the age-old quandary of ‘what next’ after conflict termination. Perhaps Wilson employs Komatsu’s character and actions to inspire Americans during this time of extreme political divisiveness and mistrust. Will we forsake revenge and retribution by uniting to fortify peace, democracy, and prosperity? If so, who will emerge as our Komatsu?”

—Colonel Kay A. Smith. Colonel, USAF (Retired).

 

“James Mikel Wilson’s book takes us on a wonderful deep dive into the incredible life of Takashi Komatsu and his dedication to peace and friendship between the US and Japan. I particularly enjoyed Wilson’s exploration of Shofuso House, which I have had the privilege of experiencing firsthand. It is a living symbol of the enduring friendship between the two nations, largely thanks to Komatsu’s efforts. In the years following the San Francisco Peace Treaty, Komatsu played a pivotal role in fostering cultural exchange and understanding between the US and Japan, including his work with John D. Rockefeller III to bring Shofuso to life. This traditional Japanese house and garden, originally exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art in NYC and now permanently displayed in Philadelphia, captivated American audiences and reignited interest in Japan’s rich heritage.”

—Alan Wilkis. Artist (Big Data), Music Producer, and Composer for Film and TV.

 

“I applaud James Mikel Wilson for his insightful narrative of Takashi Komatsu. When conflicts end, like the current Russian-Ukrainian War, who will be the artist of peace to bring warring partners past the residual anger to cooperation and perhaps friendship? Komatsu was such a man, and his impact seems incomprehensible.”

—Dr. Stan S. Katz. Author of The Art of Diplomacy and former San Diego World Affairs Council Board Member.                                                                   

*The Art of Diplomacy is the illustrated biography of Prince Iyesato Tokugawa (1863-1940), an international statesman who promoted peace and democracy. Tokugawa was so influential that it was only after his passing in 1940, that militants were able to push Japan into joining the Axis Powers during WWII. Prince Tokugawa allied with and mentored Takashi Komatsu.  Tokugawa’s peace-loving legacy would live on after WWII, through the creative efforts of Takashi Komatsu, who took a pivotal role in bringing the US and Japan together again as friends and allies.

 

“I was absolutely blown away by the volume of Wilson’s research on Japan’s geopolitical history and the details of Takashi Komatsu’s life—particularly how they intersected with important global events. Komatsu’s influence on the early years of Japan’s post-WW II recovery and renewed friendship with the US is still felt today, as evidenced by their strong strategic and economic alliances. Wilson’s book illustrates that real life can be as captivating as fiction.”

—Jeff Rankin. Retired Editor and Historian, Monmouth College.

 

Wilson’s new book helps readers understand how Takashi Komatsu was influenced by his mentors in the US and Japan. These influences played a major role in his ability to form alliances and work as a catalyst to building the Japanese economy and the strong economic ties between Japan and the US. —Gary Randazzo. Sr Lecturer, C.T. College of Business, University of Houston; Former EVP and General Manager, San Francisco Chronicle and Sr. VP Houston Chronicle.

 

BELOW IS A MESSAGE FROM THE AUTHOR:

To guide others to discover Komatsu’s unheralded contributions to peace, I respectfully ask that you share this announcement with family, friends, and acquaintances so they can know how this remarkable man shaped our history.

I would also appreciate your posting a reader review on Amazon or Goodreads to help others learn about Komatsu and his astonishing true story. Amazon elevates the visibility of a new book based on sales and the number of reviews posted.

I hope you enjoy the front cover of The Cherry Tree Weeps For Me. After researching hundreds of images and dozens of photographers, I selected one of Kunihito Ohtsubo’s stunning photos. He graciously allowed me to use his work for the cover. Ohtsubo is among Japan’s finest photographers and has my sincere gratitude and appreciation. (Instagram @kunihito_ohtsubo)

Sincerely,

Jim

James Mikel Wilson

Houston, TX

Author: www.jamesmikelwilson.com

Instagram: @jamesmikelwilson

 

Below is a link to the Harvard Magazine Jan.-Feb. 2026 article titled: A Congenial Voice in Japanese-American Relations, about Takashi Komatsu and Prince Tokugawa.

https://www.harvardmagazine.com/alumni/harvard-takashi-komatsu-japanese-american-relations

For Highlighting the Legacy of Great Leaders who Strove for Peace & Democracy and Fought Against Racism, Author/Historian Dr. Stan S. Katz was nominated for the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Community Service Award

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Dear Friends,

Here is an illustrated article which honors the memories of significant Black, Asian, and Caucasian historical figures who creatively and peacefully utilized the intercultural exchange of art, music, education, and diplomacy as well as working through the political and legal systems to improve race relations – International disrespect and racism has often been a catalyst towards conflict. By gaining new insights from history, we discover better answers for dealing with our challenging issues of today.

Over the past twenty years, I’ve written historical works which honor significant, but often forgotten individuals who devoted their lives to promoting peace, democracy, and strove to confront racism. Based largely on this, in combination with volunteer activities and membership in public affairs organizations, such as the San Diego World Affairs Council, I was nominated for the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Service Award. The below article highlights the Award Ceremony and Prayer Breakfast honoring the memory of MLK, and gives an introduction to the historical work I’ve written, including some rare photos discovered during my research.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Service Award for 2023

Above is the Front Cover of the Event Booklet distributed at this Community Prayer Breakfast and Award Event. It contains short bios of the nominees for the award, and includes descriptions of the speakers and honors various organizations that supported this inspiring gathering.

Sponsored by City of Oceanside and North San Diego County NAACP

Award Ceremony took place on MLK Day, January 16th, 2023.

This article was written by Dr. Stan S. Katz, who felt gratitude and was emotionally touched to be one of the nominees.

 

Below is the Back Cover of the Event Booklet – During the weekend prior to the above event, members of the North San Diego County NAACP working in partnership with other community organizations, held a DAY OF SERVICE to honor the memory of Dr. King – Volunteers came together to to help those in need in our community.

 

US Congressman Mike Levin gives a stirring speech, describing how he once personally accompanied US Congressman John Lewis (1940 – 2020) over the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama. This was done in commemoration for that important historical event in the movement towards a more inclusive democracy and equal treatment of the races. Levin stated this important moment helped shape his social values to improve the treatment of all of our nation’s citizens. John Lewis  was often called the conscience of the congress.

Uplifting speeches were also given by Senator Catherine Blakespear, District 38, California State Legislature, and Mayor Esther Sanchez of the City of Oceanside.

 

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Service Award is an annual award given to a resident of the City of Oceanside or member of the U.S. Armed Forces stationed at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Pendleton. The award is given to a resident who exemplifies the ideals and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who worked to advance civil rights, equal education, labor, and voter rights and who fought racial inequality through non-violence and civil disobedience. The Community Service Award began thirty years ago as a way to recognize persons in the community who have given time and energy through volunteerism to improve community life, develop positive relations in the community, and enhance the lives of individuals. The award has no restrictions as to race, ethnicity, gender, or type of service and is open to any resident of Oceanside or MCB Camp Pendleton. The North San Diego County Chapter of the NAACP partners with the City of Oceanside in presenting this Community Award.

All nominees for the 2023 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Service Award receive the following:

– A Certificate of Special Recognition from the City of Oceanside, issued January 16th, 2023 from Esther Sanchez Mayor

– A Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from Mike Levin, Member of the U.S. Congress 49th District, California, issued January 16th, 2023

– A Certificate of Recognition on behalf of the California State Senate, from Catherine Blakespear Senator, District 38, issued January 16th, 2023

 

Upon the stage, behind the podium, in the brown jacket is Inez Williams, Events Chairman for the North San Diego County NAACP – Holding the microphone is Mayor Esther Sanchez of the City of Oceanside – In front of them are four of the five nominees for the 2023 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Service Award. Mrs. Karen Williams Graham was one of the nominees, but is out of the frame of the above photo. The four nominees present in the above photo from left to right: Captain Lakyra Pharms; Eleanor Juanita Evans; Satia O. Austin; and Dr. Stan S. Katz.

 

Satia O. Austin receives the Dr. King Community Service Award.

Then Mayor Esther Sanchez presents the proclamation for Dr. King Day of Service and Community Breakfast Weekend, with special acknowledgement to NSDC NAACP, MiraCosta College Service Learning and Beatriz “Bea” Palmer.

 

 

Satia O. Austin, after winning the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 2023 Community Service Award, gives an acceptance speech describing her passion to help others in our community. A most inspiring woman.

 

All of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Service Award nominees received Certificates of Recognition from US Congressman Mike Levin, California State Senator Catherine Blakespear, and Oceanside Mayor Esther Sanchez.

 

 

Over the past twenty years, I’ve done historical research and written books honor great individuals who promoted peace and democracy, and sought to eliminate racism. Below are books I’ve written linked to these goals. My nomination for the MLK Community Service Award from the City of Oceanside and the NSDC NAACP was based on these books and research, as well as community volunteer service I’ve given over many years.

This historical novel reveals the thrilling adventures of a brilliant US Army Intelligence Agent, Colonel Sidney Mashbir (1891-1973). Mashbir’s fascinating career in espionage began in the American Southwest during the early 1900’s, maintaining stability along the U.S.- Mexico border during the Mexican Revolution.

During the 1920s, Mashbir moved to Japan and became a Japanese linguist. Throughout that decade and through the 1930s, he befriended some of the most influential Japanese leaders. And together, at great personal risk, they heroically resisted militarists pushing towards war. Instead, Mashbir and his Japanese allies creatively supported goodwill between the US and Japan, delaying and almost preventing WWII in the Pacific – However, that conflict could not be avoided.

The novel highlights the great contributions that Japanese Americans gave to their adopted nation during the war, despite the discrimination and injustices they faced in the United States prior to, and then greatly magnified during those war years. When 120,000 mainly Japanese American US citizens were incarcerated in internment camps, when they had done nothing wrong. Often with the loss of their possessions and the major disruption of their personal, educational, vocational lives. It was a dark moment in US History.

As for Colonel Sidney Mashbir, with the outbreak of war, he became General MacArthur’s top military strategy advisor in winning that conflict. And once it was over, he helped guide the US and Japan to once again become strong allies.

Mashbir often worked with his Navy buddy, the future Rear Admiral and Deputy Chief of Naval Intelligence, Ellis Zacharias (1890 – 1961). These good friends were early pioneers in the creation of the CIA.

To learn more, you’re invited to visit: TheEmperorAndTheSpy.com

 

-Colonel Mashbir’s most influential Japanese ally and close friend was Prince Iesato Tokugawa – aka Iyesato Tokugawa (1863-1940). Tokugawa was the leading advocate of Japan’s international peace and democracy movement during the first four decades of the 20th Century.

For 30 of those years, he served as President of Japan’s upper house of congress, the House of Peers. I felt privileged to have the opportunity to write about this unsung hero and humanitarian, who deserved a biography highlighting his fascinating life and outstanding accomplishments.

During the 1920s and 1930s Prince Tokugawa incorporated Lincoln Essay Contests into all Japanese Public Schools and Colleges to Fight Racism and Honor the Values of President Lincoln. Recognition was given to the students who best described those values.

I created the below sculpture in order to capture and honor the essence of three significant Men of Peace, who promoted Human Dignity and Racial Equality,

President Abraham Lincoln (February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865)

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (January 15, 1929 – April 4, 1968)

Prince Iyesato Tokugawa (徳川 家達, August 24, 1863 – June 5, 1940)

 

Tokugawa loved his own Japanese culture. He also came to love the peoples and cultures of the West. This was despite the anti-Asian and anti-Black racism he often saw during his travels across the US. Prince Tokugawa, like Dr. King, recognized the common brotherhood of humanity.

Photo: February 19, 1929 Award Presentation for the student winners of the Third Lincoln Essay Contest which was held at the Imperial Hotel, Tokyo. Prince Tokugawa was the President of the America-Japan Society which sponsored the event.

Prince Tokugawa (front center) and Count Aisuke Kabayama (at far right). This illustration is courtesy of the America-Japan Society. This fine organization, located in Japan, was founded in 1917 and continues to this day to promote amity and mutual understanding between the Japanese and American people. Prince Tokugawa was its 2nd president from 1924 until his passing in 1940. To learn more, here is the internet link to the America-Japan Society:    http://ajstokyo.org/en-home/

 

In 1930, Tokugawa was selected as the Keynote Speaker at the 25th Anniversary Celebration for Rotary International held in Chicago. There, he presented a speech encouraging peaceful international relations to 15,000 fellow Rotarians gathered from around the world.

The New York Times, June 27, 1930, press photo: “Japanese Prince Addresses Rotarian Convention: In an address of international importance, before 15,000 Rotarians assembled in Chicago for their Silver Anniversary Jubilee.” The following are two excerpts his inspiring speech, which was titled ‘National Aspirations.’

“Japan’s foremost aspiration is to cultivate the arts of peace and live at peace with her neighbors, near or distant, great or small.”

“Peace is a continuous process. Like liberty, peace demands “eternal vigilance” as its price. To the goal of peace, there can be no short cut.”

 

Prince Tokugawa was to be the Heir to the last powerful ruling Shogun. However, when that 265 year old dynasty ended in 1868, he instead took to the world stage as an international statesman. As a Renaissance man and adept diplomat, he creatively shared his passion for the arts, music, culture, science, athletic sports, and nature to establish bridges of friendship and understanding between the East and the West, while also promoting mutual respect within Asia. He is a fine role model for our current leaders dealing with the urgent issues of today that require international cooperation to solve.

Tokugawa supported higher education and a greater voice for women in public affairs. And despite his major influence, he maintained his humility. Often working behind the scenes, remaining unrecognized for many of his important achievements. Colonel Mashbir described Tokugawa as the true hidden power behind the Japanese Imperial Throne, and that he was so influential, that it was only after his passing in 1940, that militants were able to push Japan towards war with the Allies.

Two versions of the Prince Tokugawa’s biography were written: The Art of Diplomacy & The Art of Peace.

The Art of Peace book cover displays a 1934 photo of Tokugawa receiving an Honorary Doctor of Law Degree from the President of the University of Southern California for his lifelong philanthropic & academic contributions and for his promotion of respectful East / West relations. Tokugawa’s son is also in the photo, as is the President of USC’s Board of Directors. The following year, USC presented the same honorary award to President FDR.

 

To encourage respect between Japan and China, Prince Tokugawa and his influential Japanese industrialist ally & friend, Baron Shibusawa, incorporated Chinese literature courses into Japan’s colleges with hopes it would encourage better inter-cultural understanding and prevent conflict.

 

However, WWII could be delayed, but not prevented. So as to save innocent civilian lives, Prince Tokugawa, as President of the Red Cross Society of Japan, served as Chairman of the 1934 International Red Cross Conference held in Tokyo – During that significant global gathering, they approved the establishment of demilitarized “safe zones” in war-torn China, which prior to, and during WWII, provided refuge for tens of thousands of European Jews fleeing the Holocaust and also offered safety for hundreds of thousands of Chinese civilians.

  • One would hope that recognition of this major Japanese humanitarian achievement might help improve current strained relations between China and Japan, leading to greater regional stability, cooperation, and amity.

 

And to establish an ongoing legacy of U.S. – Japan friendship, Prince Tokugawa guided the Japanese gifting of cherry blossom trees to the U.S. in 1912, into becoming the National Cherry Blossom Festival in 1935. This delightful yearly celebration continues to this day in Washington, D.C., and is one of our nation’s largest and most popular international goodwill events.

 

The Legacy of Prince Tokugawa’s Respect for Human Equality linked to President Abraham Lincoln Lives On

Prince Tokugawa went beyond judging others by their race, creed, or color, as revealed by his sponsorship of Lincoln Essay Contests in all Japanese public schools and universities during the 1920s and ’30s. He would be delighted to know of the continued friendship between the U.S. and Japan, and that future Japanese and U.S. leaders would join together to recognize the importance of President Lincoln’s universal message. Perhaps, someday, Essay Contests will be sponsored in schools of the U.S., Japan, and other nations, honoring the fine values of Iesato Tokugawa.

April 27, 2015: U.S. President Barack Obama and Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe tour the Lincoln Memorial. They are looking towards the Washington Monument on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Prime Minister Abe was in Washington, D.C. for meetings with President Obama. Abe also attended a state dinner in his honor at the White House the following night. A U.S. administration official described the above photo as follows:

“This is an opportunity before the formal events tomorrow to spend time together one-on-one at a place of historical significance for the United States, as this month marks both the 150th anniversary of the Civil War’s end as well as President Lincoln’s passing…”

The above photo and description of the diplomatic meeting between President Obama and Prime Minister Abe, comes from the conclusion of the Prince Tokugawa biography. The goal of my books is that they bring inspiring leaders from the past, back to life, igniting an interest, even a passion for history. To be enjoyed by the general public and shared in academic curriculum.

 

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. EVENT

It was inspiring seeing the 300 attendees to the Dr. King Community Prayer Breakfast. Many of these individuals are active in organizations that work to create a more positive and inclusive community where we look out for one another with friendship and respect. In the below photo, Silent Auction items are on display – Proceeds going to support the many fine services given by the North San Diego County Chapter of the NAACP.

During this gathering:

Two talented high school teenagers were recognized as part of this wonderful event. One sang an emotionally connecting song, another contributed artwork for the Silent Auction Fundraiser for the NSDC NAACP.

There was also an impressive 7 year old girl who expressively danced on the front stage as uplifting music was played, the audience came to their feet in applause.

The breakfast was delicious and the company friendly and welcoming to one another.

Representatives of Mira Costa College, also the Captain and several City of Oceanside police officers were in attendance. Other City of Oceanside officials and other San Diego community groups were also represented.

A Reverend gave a meaningful prayer of appreciation before a delightful breakfast was served.

 

Gary Rossell (shown below), and his wife Carolyn, are founders of the Rossell African-American History Awareness Museum. They regularly travel around the county to bring their beautifully illustrated and inspiring exhibits to public social justice commemorative events, such as this Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. community gathering.

 

Carolyn Rossell (above, her side view to the camera), along with her husband, Gary, created this wonderfully inspiring educational exhibit.

I showed Gary and Carolyn Rossell the rare 1939 photo below. This Photo was discovered and identified while doing historical research that honors the legacy of Thurgood Marshall (Marshall is at far right in photo).

Gary and Carolyn expressed great interest in utilizing this unique piece of history as part of an upcoming exhibit to honor the accomplishments of Thurgood Marshall, our nation’s first Black US Supreme Court Judge.

Marshall took a major role in gaining equal rights for all citizens in our nation and was a driving force in the growth of the NAACP. In the above photo, the 31 year attorney Marshall allies with President FDR to advance the treatment of Black Workers. Marshall was then on the Legal staff of the NAACP. The following year, 1940, he was selected Chief of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, which was created to mount a legal assault against segregation. Marshall became one of our nation’s leading judicial voices. He argued 32 cases before the U.S. Supreme Court, winning 29.

June 13th, 1967: Thurgood Marshall meets in friendship and mutual respect with President Lyndon B. Johnson in the Oval Office of the White House on the day that Marshall was nominated by Johnson to serve on the Supreme Court. Photo courtesy of the LBJ Museum & Library

 

Acknowledgments

  • It was a pleasure to meet Joe Farmer, who was seated at my same table. In 2009, he was the recipient of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Service Award. During his 40 years of service at Camp Pendleton, he oversaw upkeep and maintenance. In addition, he served as Commissioner of Housing for the City of Oceanside.
  • Also seated at our table was US Marine Captain Lakyra Pharms (shown below), one of the five nominees for the 2023 award.

During the event, I gifted a copy of the illustrated biography, The Art of Diplomacy to Captain Lakyra Pharms. Lakyra suggested we take a photo, and above is results. Lakyra’s significant community achievements, as that of the other nominees are included in the Event booklet shown at the top of this article, which was distributed at the event. Lakyra mentioned the future possibility of going towards a career in the diplomatic service.

Several of the above photos of the MLK Community Service Award nominees were kindly provided by Joseph Farmer, the 2009 Recipient of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Service Award.

Thanks also go to Bea Palmer, an active member of the NAACP, who helped bring about this MLK commemorative event. Bea Palmer is Vice-President – Board of Directors of “Operation HOPE” – North County San Diego, whose mission is to provide a safe environment for both families with children and single women who are experiencing homelessness and to help support them as they rebuild their lives and regain HOPE.” Bea Palmer is also actively involved at MiraCosta College, encouraging bright young students to engage with and improve their community.

Below is a link to learn more about Bea Palmer and the MiraCosta College Service Learning program mentioned above:   https://hub.miracosta.edu/meet/profile.aspx?id=65

I also had the pleasure of meeting Margery Pierce, who took an active part in setting up this MLK event. She was the Director of Neighborhood Services for the City of Oceanside.

Appreciation goes out to the representatives of the North San Diego County NAACP for supporting this community event. “The NAACP’s mission is to achieve equity, political rights, and social inclusion by advancing policies and practices that expand human and civil rights, eliminate discrimination, and accelerate the well-being, education, and economic security of Black people and all persons of color.”

There were many other individuals and organizations who took a significant role in making this wonderful event come to life. Gratitude goes out to all of them! The following illustration was the last page of the booklet that was distributed at this gathering. It highlights many of those who generously supported this event.

 

 

 

 

An Exciting Upcoming Biography: Teddy Roosevelt’s Secret Mission to Japan

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INTRODUCTION

The people we choose to honor, shape and inspire our future

Theodore Roosevelt (October 27, 1858 – January 6, 1919) a Man of and ahead of his Time.

Launching the creation of this exciting biography was the surprising acquisition of a one-of-a-kind, antique group photo which appeared to include Theodore Roosevelt, taken during a secret visit to Japan in 1909. And if it was Theodore, why had he gone there? The U.S. and Japanese flags attached to the ceiling above the eleven individuals in the photo gave the impression of a diplomatic event. Once you’ve read this biography, you’ll likely agree that Theodore, accompanied by his wife, Edith, their daughter, Alice, and their son, Kermit, along with seven other companions did take part in this most covert operation in U.S. Presidential History.

The research on the below mysterious 1909 photo revealed important new insights about Theodore Roosevelt, both the man and the creative international negotiator – This story will entertain the general public & supply historians with fascinating material for further investigation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This 1909 Photo was acquired while researching for the author’s historical novel, The Emperor and the Spy, and the illustrated biographies: The Art of Peace and The Art of Diplomacy. These books highlight US Japanese relations. The novel presents a high level U.S. intelligence agent, Colonel Sidney Mashbir (1891-1973), who during the 1920’s and ’30’s formed strong alliances with Japanese leaders, together striving to maintain goodwill between their nations. The biographies spotlight the inspiring Japanese statesmen, Prince Iyesato Tokugawa (1863-1940) and Baron Eiichi Shibusawa (1840-1931), who closely engaged with eight U.S. presidents and other world leaders in the pursuit of peace, democracy, and mutually beneficial business and cultural exchange. Theodore Roosevelt, along with his presidential successor, William Howard Taft, developed a personal friendship and political alliance with Tokugawa and Shibusawa during the first decades of the 20th Century. A largely untold story.

Illustrated above is the back of the mysterious group photo, with the words written in pen:

“Yokohama Dec. 1909.”

The photo measures 4.25″ x 3.25″

*It is worthy of note that in 1905, Alice Roosevelt and William Howard Taft (the then Secretary of War under T.R.), along with a large U.S. political entourage visited Japan and Asia in general. For unknown reasons, Alice required that most the photos of that journey not be shared with the general public until over a century later. When they were made available, they were utilized for an online Smithsonian Museum Exhibit titled: Alice in Asia: The 1905 Taft Mission to Asia. It appears that secrecy was required for T.R. to achieve his diplomatic goals with the Japan in 1909. And for that reason, they delayed sharing Alice’s 1905 photos with the public until the far distant future.

The below 1905 photo illustration is from Alice Roosevelt’s autobiography, Crowded Hours. It shows her and her shipmate companions – The Photo is included in the Smithsonian Museum Exhibit: Alice in Asia: The 1905 Taft Mission to Asia – It is an interesting coincidence that in the above 1909 Photo, Alice is seated cross-legged on the ground in front of her father, while in the below 1905 Photo, she is now seated cross-legged at the feet of William Howard Taft.

 

Known-photo-of-T.R.-circa-1908

Frequently referred to by his initials T.R. or Teddy Roosevelt, he is one of our most admired and even beloved presidents. Displayed below is circa 1908 Portrait photo of T.R. standing next to a World Globe. Besides being a national statesman, he wished to be recognized as a leader with a global perspective and international influence. Like most powerful presidential leaders, there were successes and controversies linked to his domestic policies and foreign engagements. These topics are explored, using hundreds of illustrations.

On a personal note: from an early age, I’ve had a deep appreciation for Theodore for various reasons, including his sheer determination to overcome his limitations as an unhealthy child, and instead live a robust, adventurous, and accomplished life.

T.R. served as the 26th president of the United States from 1901 to 1909. And before that from March to September 1901, he served under President William McKinley as the 25th vice president. Prior to those highest level national offices, T.R. also held the position as the 33rd governor of the influential State of New York from 1899 to 1900, emerging as a dominant political leader and a driving force for antitrust legislation supporting Progressive policies in the early 20th century. T.R. also wore the hat of a conservationist, naturalist, and writer. And he is respectfully depicted on Mount Rushmore, alongside George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Abraham Lincoln.

A great deal of new historical material was discovered that highlighted Theodore Roosevelt’s strong desire to improve the lives of Black Americans. T.R. strongly looked up to President Abraham Lincoln and his struggle to eliminate slavery. This biography highlights inspiring actions on the part of T.R. to improve Black / White race relations. Based on earlier writings and research linked to eliminating racism, the author of this biography was in 2023 nominated for the Dr. Martin Luther King Community Service Award, by the City of Oceanside, California and a Chapter of the NAACP.

T.R. looked out for the average citizen and wasn’t afraid to face off with powerful corporations in order to defend America’s natural environment. Accompanied by the naturalist, John Muir, they once embarked on a three-night camping trip exploring the most beautiful and pristine areas of Yosemite. This inspired Theodore to realize that many of America’s most beautiful areas needed protection – So he established the U.S. National Park Service which watches over this precious legacy. And during his 1909 Smithsonian Museum African Safari adventure, he used his influence to inspire the creation of the great game parks of East Africa that continue to this day.

Teddy Roosevelt’s Secret Mission to Japan

Like a Sherlock Holmes mystery, unravelling clues and finding hidden meanings, recognizing the collaborators in their 1909 mission to Japan, and those dangerous forces who stood in their way – Supporting the veracity of this extraordinary story are “Highly Top Secret” classified Japanese diplomatic letters recently unearthed from the National Archives of Japan from over a century ago. These 1908-1909 correspondences strategized how best to encourage T.R. to pay a friendly visit to Japan during his term in office or after his presidency, just as the dark storm clouds of  World War One were rapidly approaching.

It appears that it was towards the conclusion of his African Safari, and before embarking on his European Peace Tour that T.R. and members of his family and their companions secretly visited Japan. The recent impressive military victory of the Japanese over the Russians in the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905, added importance to the US and Japan maintaining good relations. T.R.’s leadership role in bringing that conflict to an end resulted in him receiving a Nobel Peace Prize in 1906 – So US / Japan relations was a topic very close to his heart.

The amazing search capabilities of the internet assisted in the retrieval of historical newspapers/magazines and in the acquisition of long forgotten personal and official primary source materials. Included in this biography is a 1908 photo of T.R. secretly accompanied by Andrew Carnegie, attending a Memorial Ceremony for Abraham Lincoln – Carnegie wished to meet with T.R. prior to T.R.’s departure on his African Safari Adventure and European Peace Mission, which Carnegie funded.

There is also a rare 1910 photo of T.R. being met by his much younger cousin, F.D.R., upon T.R.’s return from Africa and Europe.

Another fascinating photo only recently discovered presents the then former Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft  in 1915, secretly attending a diplomatic banquet in N.Y.C. honoring the visit of  the Japanese statesmen, Baron Shibusawa. There was a pattern of secrecy when it came to U.S. / Japan political relations.

This biography highlights T.R.’s alliances with the world’s most influential international political leaders, the wealthiest individuals, as well as European and Japanese nobility. Strategic statecraft lessons are revealed in this fascinating story, providing significant perspectives on matters that continue to influence U.S. Asian relations to this day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Color enhanced version of the original 1909 photo.

                        

The book is Dedicated to these organizations

World Affairs Councils of America (WACA) – a national, non-profit, non-partisan, educational/political affairs association whose goal is international cooperation and understanding. The author is on the board of directors of the San Diego World Affairs Council, a local chapter. On a yearly basis, WACA and her many chapters across the U.S. organize exciting local and national high school competitions called Academic World Quest, where students display their knowledge of significant world events.

Rotary International promotes good-will projects in local communities and internationally. Their motto, “Service Above Self.”

Japan Society of New York City has a long history of supporting good relations between U.S. and Japan.

America-Japan Society headquartered in Tokyo, celebrated its 100th Year Anniversary in 2017. They promote peace and stability for Japan-U.S. relations, as well as for the world, encouraging educational and cultural exchange.

Shibusawa Eiichi Memorial Foundation and Museum located in Japan. Baron Shibusawa Eiichi and Prince Tokugawa Iesato were friends and allies with President Theodore Roosevelt and with other U.S. presidents in the promotion of goodwill between their nations.

National Association of Japan-America Societies (NAJAS), a private, non-profit, non-partisan organization that offers educational, cultural, and business programs about Japan and U.S./Japan relations. Located in 32 cities in the U.S., their mission to strengthen cooperation and understanding between Japan and the U.S.

*Appreciation is also given to other organizations promoting inter-racial goodwill within the U.S. and internationally.

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter One                                                                          1

-Early Research to Identify the Individuals in the 1909 photo

-Overview of U.S. Japan relations mid-1800s thru early 1900s

-T.R. combats Racism against Japanese Americans

 

Chapter Two                                                                        31

-Economic Instability and an International Arms Race

 

Chapter Three                                                                     48

-Six of the Eleven Individuals in the Mystery Photo are identified

– T.R.’s exciting 1909-1910 Smithsonian African Expedition

 

Chapter Four                                                                      73

-Theories as to why Teddy Roosevelt might have Secretly Visited Japan in late 1909

 

Chapter Five                                                                       89

-Theodore Roosevelt Advances the Rights and Respect of Black Americans

 

Chapter Six                                                                       109

-Logistics as to how T.R. & his companions might have covertly travelled to Japan?

–The Cornelius Vanderbilt Family connection.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

Chapter Seven                                                                   127

-Andrew Carnegie and the Beginnings of an International Peace Movement, Supported by T.R. & influential Japanese statesmen.

–Was History Repeating Itself? Was T.R.’s 1909 visit to Japan with his family, similar to that of former President Grant, a half-century earlier?

  

Chapter Eight                                                                   146     

-‘Highly Classified Secrets’ at THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF JAPAN offers a potential key to the mysterious 1909 visit to Japan.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

Chapter Nine                                                                  172           

-T.R.’s fascinating 1909-1910 WORLD TOUR INCLUDES EGYPT AND EUROPE.                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

Chapter Ten                                                                    194     

-With WORLD WAR I closing in, a strong U.S. Japan Alliance was more Important than Ever.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

CLOSING REMARKS                                                        210

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT                                                   219

NOTES SECTION                                                              220

Additional Research Resources                                      265

Index                                                                                   267

 

 

Praise for Author’s Prior Books

The Emperor and the Spy historical novel

‘’I have learned a lot about Colonel Mashbir and his real friendship with Prince Tokugawa which was a pleasant surprise for me. Your stories about Japanese-American Military Intelligence Service have also done a great justice to so many unsung heroes.”  Kazuo Kodama, former Japanese Ambassador to the United Nations

 

“I realize how difficult it is to weave fact and fiction but you did a masterful job. I have often wondered about the closing of WW II and how Japan got its new system of governance.” J. L. Ruthenberg, Lieutenant Colonel, USMC, Retired

 

“A fascinating story . . . a fine book,”

Lisa Wolff, past Managing Editor of Simon & Shuster

 

BARNES & NOBLE chose this novel to honor Veterans Day Weekend with a Book signing at their Oceanside, California Store.

 

“Novelist brings spy out of the shadows. Looking forward to the movie.”

Pam Kragen, SAN DIEGO UNION TRIBUNE

 

“The Emperor and the Spy…I couldn’t put it down.”

Hilliard Harper, Retired Naval Reserve Commander and former Writer for the Los Angeles Times

 

“My mother is a history expert. She taught history to high schoolers. She read your book in a day over the weekend and is now rereading it. These are her comments: It’s a fun read, page turner, shows tremendous research, historical novels don’t get better than that, intelligently written book, informative, conversations enlightening, she learned a lot…In sum, she said this is an outstanding book. Congratulations!”

Dave Edick Jr., President of San Diego World Affairs Council & President of San Diego International Sister Cities Association

 

“The book is fast-paced yet thoroughly researched. I compare the depth and factual detail of Katz’s writing with those of Wilbur Smith and Dick Francis. You’ll appreciate the weaving of concurrent events, and the nuances only an expert in the field can convey. Like Frederick Forsyth’s books, the international intrigue with imminent national security threats keep one in suspense . . . Katz’s narrative subtly demonstrates the pivot points around which the arc of history may have been so very different… It’s deliciously epic.”

Rita Lim Wilby PhD., Rotarian and Chairman of Programming at San Diego World Affairs Council

 

“Thank you for having interest in Japanese History. Looking forward to your new book! [The biography of Prince Tokugawa]

Kenko Sone Director of Global Communications for Shinzō Abe Prime Minister of Japan

 

 

The Art of Peace & The Art of Diplomacy illustrated biographies

“The importance of preventing war is rarely given recognition through literature and in accounts of history.  It can be every bit as exciting as glorified accounts of war and certainly a better approach.” Professor Claire Langham, former President of the East-West Center of Southern California

 

“We look forward to adding The Art of Peace to the School’s library collection. Your goal to reach high school and college students with this information is an ambitious – but important – goal. Best wishes with your project.”

Suzette Heiman, Director of Planning and Communications Missouri School of Journalism at University of Missouri

 

“We appreciate your kindness and all the work you have done to promote understanding of Shibusawa Eiichi and US-Japan relations as a whole. I wish you all the best in your current and future endeavors. With gratitude,”  Toru Shigehara: Head Librarian/Information Resources Center, Shibusawa Eiichi Memorial Foundation and Museum located in Japan

 

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