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Hawaii’s transition from an independent monarchy to a U.S. territory is traced back to a significant incident in 1893. An alliance of American soldiers and a handful of enterprising businessmen successfully orchestrated a coup, effectively ending Hawaii’s sovereignty.
The alluring appeal of Hawaii, unfortunately, harbors hidden perils. An alarming statistic reveals that about one visitor loses their life every week while indulging in typical holiday pursuits such as snorkeling, hiking, or simply enjoying the breathtaking vistas.
A notable aspect of Hawaii’s landscape is the island of Lanai, the archipelago’s sixth largest. This island, covering 88,000 acres, is majorly owned by one of the founders of Oracle. He acquired this stake for $300 million in 2012, promising to invest an additional $500 million towards renewable energy projects. A decade since, two resorts have been renovated, an old movie theater revived, and a hydroponic lettuce farm established.
Intriguingly, there exists an island known as the “Forbidden Isle,” acquired for a modest $10,000 by a Scottish woman back in 1864. Today, her direct descendants retain control over the island and its modest population, necessitating their approval for any outsider seeking access.
In a bid to safeguard Hawaiian culture from oblivion, King Kalākaua embarked on a global journey in 1881. He earned the distinction of being the first monarch to circumnavigate the world, establishing valuable connections across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and America.
Surprisingly, nearly half of all Native Hawaiians have relocated away from the islands, primarily due to the spiraling cost of living and economic stagnation. Many have found a new home in California, because Hawaii became the priciest state in the U.S., with living expenses exceeding the average wage by a fifth.
An unusual Hawaiian tradition permits the scattering of ashes into the fiery craters of its volcanoes. This practice requires a permit, available for a nominal $25, and discretion on the part of those partaking.
When it comes to culinary predilections, Hawaiians exhibit an unrivaled penchant for Spam. With the highest per capita consumption in the U.S., the islands collectively consume approximately seven million cans each year.
Hawaii’s flag interestingly includes the Union Jack, even in the absence of any historical British rule. This inclusion signifies the amicable relations maintained with the United Kingdom.
Lastly, the revered Hawaiian tune, “Aloha ‘Oe,” carries a rich cultural legacy. Its creator was the last queen of Hawaii, Liliʻuokalani, who penned it while imprisoned following a coup that culminated in Hawaii’s annexation by the U.S.