Unsustainable Empire: Alternative Histories of Hawai'i Statehood

The admission of Hawai'i to the United States as the 50th state in 1959 is often portrayed as a progressive step towards equality and self-determination. However, an examination of the historical record reveals a more complex and contested narrative. This article explores alternative histories of Hawai'i statehood, challenging the official account and uncovering the voices and perspectives that have been marginalized or ignored.

Unsustainable Empire: Alternative Histories of Hawai‘i Statehood

by David Milne

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	24309 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	298 pages

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Indigenous Resistance and Imperialism

Prior to European contact, Hawai'i was an independent kingdom with a vibrant culture and a highly stratified social system. In 1778, Captain James Cook made the first recorded contact with Hawai'i, and subsequent visits by European explorers and traders led to significant changes in the archipelago's society and economy.

In 1843, the Hawaiian monarchy officially ceded control of foreign affairs to the United States, and by the late 19th century, the United States had gained significant economic and political influence in Hawai'i. The indigenous Hawaiian population, however, fiercely resisted American encroachment and annexation.

From the 1890s onwards, a growing movement for Hawaiian sovereignty emerged, led by Queen Lili'uokalani and other prominent Hawaiian leaders. This movement organized protests, boycotts, and diplomatic efforts to preserve Hawaiian independence and prevent annexation by the United States.

Annexation and Statehood

Despite the resistance of the Hawaiian people, the United States annexed Hawai'i in 1898, following the Spanish-American War. The annexation was highly controversial and was met with widespread opposition from Hawaiians and international observers.

In the early 20th century, a movement for statehood gained momentum in Hawai'i, supported by a coalition of American settlers, business interests, and some Hawaiian leaders. However, this movement was also met with significant opposition from indigenous Hawaiians, who feared losing their culture and control over their land.

In 1959, Hawai'i was admitted to the United States as the 50th state, after a controversial plebiscite in which only a minority of eligible voters participated. The statehood process was marred by allegations of voter suppression, intimidation, and manipulation.

Alternative Histories

The official narrative of Hawai'i statehood presents it as a progressive step towards equality and self-determination. However, alternative histories challenge this interpretation and offer a more nuanced understanding of the events and forces that shaped Hawai'i's relationship with the United States.

Indigenous Sovereignty

Alternative histories emphasize the ongoing struggle for indigenous sovereignty in Hawai'i. The Hawaiian sovereignty movement has continued to resist statehood and advocate for the restoration of Hawaiian independence. This movement has pursued various legal and political strategies, including petitions to the United States Congress and the United Nations, and the establishment of a Hawaiian constitutional convention.

Political and Economic Exploitation

Alternative histories also highlight the political and economic exploitation that Hawai'i has experienced under American rule. The Hawaiian economy has been heavily dependent on tourism and military spending, and the indigenous Hawaiian population has faced significant economic inequality and dispossession.

Cultural Assimilation

Statehood has also led to a process of cultural assimilation, as Hawaiian language, culture, and traditions have been marginalized and suppressed in favor of American norms and values. This assimilation has had a profound impact on the identity and well-being of the Hawaiian people.

The history of Hawai'i statehood is a complex and contested one. Official narratives often portray it as a progressive step towards equality and self-determination, but alternative histories challenge this interpretation and reveal a more nuanced understanding of the events and forces that shaped Hawai'i's relationship with the United States.

By exploring alternative histories, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the ongoing struggle for indigenous sovereignty, the political and economic exploitation that Hawai'i has experienced, and the cultural assimilation that has threatened to erode Hawaiian identity and traditions. These alternative histories serve as a reminder of the importance of listening to marginalized voices and challenging official narratives that conceal the complexities of history.

Unsustainable Empire: Alternative Histories of Hawai‘i Statehood

by David Milne

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	24309 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	298 pages

FREE