We all know that there are many different things to love about Hawaii, and each is a special piece that makes the island special. Without each individual element, the islands would not be what they are. The beauty of the island chain is unmatched, the spirit of Aloha is unique, the fun of the island’s is incredible, and the history and culture top it all off. Though the history of Hawaii is often tragic, understanding what has taken place through the years is integral to knowing the islands, and the more you know about the history and culture, the more you will love Hawaii.
Since the very first arrivals to the islands around the year 800 AD, the culture has been shaped and molded, and event today, influence from those very first settlers is felt, and honored. Ancient Polynesian voyagers journeyed across the ocean using only the stars to navigate, coming upon the uninhabited islands and staking claim to what would one day be Hawaii. Over the next thousand years, more and more settlers would come across the islands, and stake a claim, further shaping the cultural identity and history. Though many of these “discoveries” have long been a point of contention, the impact that they had would forever change the islands.
After hundreds of years of settlement, when European discoverers found the islands, the impact was instant, and detrimental. The introduction of new diseases and religions would have such a negative impact that there would be division within the island, and ultimately, great battles would be fought. At one point, the islands each operated as their own independent nation, until King Kamehameha the Great unified the islands through a series of bloody battles. The Kingdom of Hawaii was ultimately established following these battles, and a succession of royalty would follow, with the Kingdom becoming a central trading post in the Pacific. That is until further tragedy would befall the islands.
With Hawaii serving as an integral figure in the world, the Kingdom of Hawaii was eventually illegally overthrown, becoming a territory of the United States. Though this overthrow was illegal, and eventually an apology was issued over 100 years later, the islands would change forever. Many years later, Hawaii was welcomed as a state, but not before even more tragedy struck. The biggest impact to the islands came when Pearl Harbor was attacked, thrusting the United States into World War II, years before it was officially a state, and prompting many changes to the operations of the island.
Though Hawaii is considered paradise, and millions of visitors arrive each year, there is much to know, understand, and sympathize with. The islands are more than just fun and beautiful beaches, and while visiting, it is vital to learn about the history and culture of the islands. Those are far more important than any beach or activity, and taking some time to hear about the history of the islands will change your perception of the Hawaiian Islands.
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Hawaii tours and activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.
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