What is the History of Hawai'i?

In this milestone 50th episode of the main podcast, we delve into the complex history of Hawai'i, exploring its journey from an independent kingdom to becoming the 50th state of the United States in 1959.

We discuss the significant cultural, political, and economic changes that have shaped Hawaii's identity over the years, including the impact of American missionaries, the sugar industry, and military interests, as well as Hawaiian identity and sovereignty, particularly in the context of ongoing debates about representation and cultural preservation.

We also addresses the challenges faced by native Hawaiians in a rapidly commercialized and tourist-driven economy, the multifaceted relationship between Hawaii and the United States, and the unique position Hawaii holds within the broader American narrative.

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Special guest for this episode:

• Henry Knight Lozano, an American Studies scholar and US historian from the University of Exeter, whose work focuses on the United States' tropical and semi-tropical frontiers of California, Florida, and Hawai'i.

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Highlights from this episode:

• Hawaii's history as a unified kingdom predates its annexation by the United States.
• The introduction of American missionaries in Hawaii had profound cultural and political impacts.
• The 1893 coup against Queen Liliuokalani marked a significant turning point in Hawaiian sovereignty.
• Hawaii's statehood in 1959 followed decades of complex political and cultural negotiations.
• The rise of tourism in Hawaii post-statehood has led to economic growth but cultural tensions.
• Native Hawaiians often express a distinct identity separate from American citizenship, reflecting ongoing issues.

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Additional Resources:

BOOK: California and Hawai'i Bound: U.S. Settler Colonialism and the Pacific West, 1848-1959 by Henry Knight Lozano

WEBSITE:Asa Thurston via FamousAmericans.net

WEBSITE: Mālama ʻĀina: Hawaii's Environmental Legacy via KonaCloudForest.com

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And if you like this episode, you might also love:

When Did the 50 States Become the 50 States

Is America an Empire?

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