Searching for Subversives

“Masterfully untangles the American government’s process for interning 343 Italian American enemy aliens during World War II. . . . The lessons derived raise timely questions about how democracies can and should protect civil liberties when experiencing threats to national security.”—Journal of Social History

“An important book with material relevance to some of the most important political and social issues of our time. By tapping into new and revealing archival research, Chopas has enriched the field of Italian American studies and American political and legal history in general.”—American Historical Review

“Adds a good deal to our understanding of the internment process for Italian enemy aliens.”—H-Net Reviews

“An important contribution to Italian American studies and US ethnic history.” — CHOICE

“This is one of the most impressive studies of its kind. Chopas has produced a model study, one that mixes detailed research with carefully nuanced readings and thoughtful analysis. This is an original and valuable addition to the literature of American history.”—Greg Robinson, author of A Tragedy of Democracy

“Searching for Subversives is a significant addition to our understanding of civilian internment in the United States during World War II. Chopas’s compilation and analysis of individual cases, as well as her examination of the role of hearing boards, is one of a kind.” — Stephen Fox, author of Against All Enemies