Notes

Keeyana Cruz 12/4/15
Ms.Crockett
Title
Hawaii
Hawai’i is a unique state with a rich history. Hawai’i offers several recreational activities that entice travelers to visit this island state.
History

In 1778 the British gained control of the territory from the native Hawaiian chief. In 1893, the Queen was overthrown and taken over by the United States government and therefore, became an American Republic in 1894.By 1898, Hawai’i was annexed as an official territory of the United States.

Although the state had been a U.S. territory for many years, it was not until August 21, 1959, that Hawai’i gained statehood and became the 50th state to join the union.

Perhaps the most well-known historical event to take place on the islands was the attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese on December 7, 1941. This event propelled the United States into World War II.

Geography and Prominent Landforms

Hawai’i is the only state to be entirely made up of islands and is located to the west of North America in the Pacific Ocean. Along with the state of Alaska, Hawai’i is not part of the contiguous United States or the continent of North America. Consisting of over 100 islands, only the main 8 islands are inhabited by people: Hawai’i, Maui, O’ahu, Kaua’i, Moloka’i, Lana’i, Ni’ihau, Kaho’olawe. Every populated island is situated on top of a volcano, therefore volcanic rock make up much of the Hawaiian landforms.

The island of Hawai’i is home to the tallest mountain in the world, Mauna Kea. It is actually taller than Mt. Everest if measured from the base which is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.

Additionally, Hawai’i is covered by an abundance of lush greenery and even rain forests. These forests provide beautiful backdrops that are well known and printed in many Hawaiian brochures.

Climate and Weather

Being an island, the climate is very tropical and humid. However, it has mild temperatures and humidity due to the eastern trade winds. Other island territories tend to be much hotter. Temperatures also vary depending on altitude, but generally speaking they are mild and ideal for comfortable living. It is rare for temperatures to drop below 60 degrees on any given island.

Economy

Ninety percent of Hawai’i’s economy is based in the service industry. Tourism drives the service industry with about 8 million travelers visiting the state annually. Hawai’i’s leading service industry encompasses hotel services, rental car agencies, health care, community, business and personal services. Also in the service industry is governmental agencies that support the United States armed forces. Army, Air Force, Navy and Marine bases are located on the island of Oahu.

Following the service industry are agriculture and manufacturing. Hawai’i relies on its exports of sugar cane and Pineapple- the state’s most valuable crops to generate revenue. Flowers also make up a large portion of exports from Hawaii. The Manufacturing industry partners with the agricultural department to can pineapple and refine sugar cane.

Other crops like coffee and bean remain on the island to drive the local economy.

Recreation

Hawai’i is covered in majestic natural scenery that is widely used to encourage visitors. By nature, Hawai’i’s beautiful beaches provide hours of entertainment with plenty of opportunities to participate in recreational water sports like surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking and swimming.

Attractions include the state’s two national parks: Haleakala National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Both parks offer scenic views of the islands and a terrific history of the volcanoes that were once active. Several historical parks dating back to ancient times can be found on Hawai’i and therefore many of these areas are protected by the government.

The famous national monument the USS Arizona is located on Oahu. This somber location commemorates the sneak attack by Japanese war planes on Pearl Harbor where more than 2,500 people lost their lives. Visitors can walk across the memorial which spans across the mid-section of the sunken battleship.