Hawaii

Lore & Background

As a strategically valuable U.S. government formally apologized for its role in the overthrow, spurring the Hawaiian sovereignty movement.

Reader's Guide

Hawaii's significance lies in its unique status as the only U.S. state that is an archipelago, the only one not on the North American mainland, and the most recent to join the union. Its economy, once dominated by plantation agriculture, has diversified since the mid-20th century, with tourism and military defense becoming the two largest sectors. The state hosts the U.S. Hawaii is one of the most demographically diverse U.S. states, with the only Asian American plurality, the largest Buddhist community, and the largest proportion of multiracial people. Its indigenous Hawaiian heritage, combined with North American and East Asian cultures, creates a unique melting pot. However, climate change poses existential threats, including drought, sea level rise, and wildfire risks, compounded by an aging and declining population. Hawaii's isolation results in one of the highest costs of living in the U.S., yet it is the third-wealthiest state and has the longest life expectancy at 80.7 years.

Did You Know?

• Hawaii is the only U.S. state that is an archipelago and the only one not on the North American mainland.
• The state flag bears a Union Jack due to early British influence.