National Archives and Records Administration

Executive Order 9066 laid the legal foundation for the relocation of Japanese Americans during World War II. Signed by Franklin D. Roosevelt on Feb. 19, 1942, the order authorized creation of military areas "from which any or all persons may be excluded... [and] to provide for residents of any such area who are excluded therefrom such transportation, food, shelter, and other accommodations as may be necessary..." After the uncontrolled "evacuation" caused problems, another executive order, 9102, established the War Relocation Authority to handle matters.

Executive Order 9102 signed by Franklin D. Roosevelt on March 18, 1942 established a War Relocation Authority to "provide for the removal from designated areas of persons whose removal is necessary in the interests of national security." The War Relocation Authority was instructed to provide for their needs 'in such manner as may be appropriate, and supervise their activities.'