Hawaii
Hawaii is the 50th and most recent state to have joined the United States, doing so on August 21, 1959. It is the only U.S. state located in Oceania, and it is the northernmost island group in Polynesia. The state encompasses nearly the entire volcanic Hawaiian Archipelago, which consists of 137 volcanic islands spread over 1,500 miles, with eight main islands (from northwest to southeast): Ni'ihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and the Big Island (officially known as Hawaii Island).
Geography
Hawaii's diverse topography includes active volcanoes, rainforests, and beaches with black, white, and even green sand. The highest point in the state is Mauna Kea on the Big Island, which stands at 13,796 feet above sea level, making it the tallest mountain in the world when measured from its base on the ocean floor to its peak.
History
- Polynesian Settlement: The first known settlers of Hawaii were Polynesians, arriving between 1,000 and 1,600 AD.
- European Discovery: Captain James Cook was the first recorded European to arrive in Hawaii in 1778. He named the archipelago the Sandwich Islands, after the Earl of Sandwich.
- Kingdom of Hawaii: The islands were united under a single kingdom in 1810 by Kamehameha I. This kingdom lasted until 1893 when Queen Liliuokalani was overthrown in a coup led by American businessmen.
- Republic and Annexation: Following the overthrow, Hawaii was established as a republic in 1894 and later annexed by the United States in 1898.
- Statehood: After several decades of debate, Hawaii was admitted as the 50th state in 1959.
Culture
Hawaiian culture is a vibrant blend of its Polynesian roots with influences from America, Asia, and other Pacific cultures. Key elements include:
- Hula: A traditional dance form.
- Language: The Hawaiian language, which was once suppressed, is experiencing a revival.
- Cuisine: Famous for dishes like Poi, Laulau, and Poke.
Economy
The economy of Hawaii heavily relies on tourism, which contributes significantly to the state's GDP. Other key sectors include:
- Agriculture: Produces sugarcane, pineapples, macadamia nuts, and coffee.
- Military: Due to its strategic location, Hawaii hosts numerous military installations.
- Technology: Growing tech industry, particularly in areas like space exploration and astronomy due to the clear skies atop Mauna Kea.
Environmental Concerns
Hawaii faces several environmental issues:
- Volcanic Activity: The islands are home to some of the world's most active volcanoes, with recent eruptions causing significant disruptions.
- Invasive Species: Threaten native ecosystems.
- Climate Change: Rising sea levels and changes in weather patterns are major concerns for the islands.
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