Mackenzie King's leadership is often critiqued for which of the following actions regarding Japanese Canadians?

• A. Creation of internment camps
• B. Promotion of immigration
• C. Advocating for civil rights
• D. Developing multicultural policies

Answer: (A)

Mackenzie King's leadership during World War II is often critiqued for the creation of internment camps for Japanese Canadians. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 and the onset of war with Japan, his government implemented policies that led to the forced relocation and internment of thousands of Japanese Canadians. This action stemmed from fear and prejudice against the Japanese community, driven by wartime hysteria, despite the fact that many individuals of Japanese descent were Canadian citizens and had lived in Canada for generations. The internment camps stripped these individuals of their rights and disrupted their lives and communities, leading to significant long-term psychological and social consequences.

In contrast, the other options reflect actions or policies that do not align with the internment of Japanese Canadians. There were no significant promotion of immigration or multicultural policies during this time, and civil rights for marginalized groups, including Japanese Canadians, were greatly undermined rather than advocated for. Thus, the focus on the creation of internment camps captures the critical aspect of King's controversial wartime leadership.