Explore Asian American & Pacific Islander Stories

Asian and Pacific Islander people play a profoundly important role in American history. Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) history and heritage include experiences of people with cultural, religious, and linguistic traditions from India, China, Japan, Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam, Hawai’i, Samoa, Tonga, among other nations from Asia and the Pacific Islands. 

It is impossible to tell the experiences of these various groups with a single history. The breadth of Asian American and Pacific Islander experience is a vital aspect of America's rich and diverse past. Explore and be part of the rich history and heritage of Asian American and Pacific Islanders found throughout the National Park System and in communities across the country preserved through the work of National Park Service programs and partners.  

Ranger and group of visitors posing for a selfie
Introduction

What do we mean when we say Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage? Consider differences and similarities of this shared heritage.

Memorial wall titled "Honor Roll" listing the names of Japanese Americans WWII service members
Stories of...

Learn more about how Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders led advances in science, fought for freedom, and shaped arts and culture.

Park ranger pointing towards the ocean while standing on a rocky shoreline
Visit

Planning a trip in person or virtually? Check out all the extraordinary spaces relating to Asian American and Pacific Islander history.

Image of Japanese women in a WWII internment camp. NPS photo
AAPI Theme Study

Learn more about the history and culture of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders through this National Park Service theme study.

Last updated: May 4, 2024

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