Rachel Maddow Presents: Burn Order Episode 1: Safecracker
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Dec 1, 2025 A shocking revelation about a burned government report could unveil one of America's most controversial decisions. The meticulous research of Aiko Herzig-Yoshinaga leads to unexpected discoveries, suggesting a cover-up. Ken Ringel, a young naval intelligence officer, sheds light on Japanese-American loyalty before Pearl Harbor. His findings contradict the narrative used to justify mass removal, exposing the human toll on families. This insightful dive into history challenges assumptions and reveals shocking truths.
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Retiree Researcher Finds Hidden Report
- Aiko Herzig-Yoshinaga, a retiree, spent years daily researching at the National Archives and developed a meticulous personal filing system.
- Her persistence led her to find a government report that was supposed to have been destroyed, changing history.
Language Training Fueled Intelligence Work
- Ken Ringel trained as a Navy language officer and spent years immersed in Japan to perform intelligence work.
- His language skills and cultural immersion made him one of the government's top experts on Japanese matters.
Naval Break-In That Uncovered Spy Files
- Lieutenant Commander Kenneth Ringel organized a midnight break-in of the Japanese consulate with LAPD, FBI, and a San Quentin safecracker.
- They photographed and replaced documents, uncovering lists of Japanese spies and proof Tokyo distrusted Japanese Americans.
