1. In 1893, the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown by American businessmen and politicians with the support of the U.S. Marines. This led to the annexation of Hawaii by the United States in 1898.
2. In 1959, Hawaii became the 50th state of the United States. December 18th marks the anniversary of Hawaii's statehood.
3. On December 18, 1992, a federal judge approved a $1 billion settlement between the U.S. government and indigenous Hawaiians to address past injustices, including the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy.
4. In 2000, the USS Greeneville submarine collided with a Japanese fishing vessel off the coast of Oahu, resulting in the death of nine Japanese crew members. The incident strained relations between the United States and Japan.
5. December 18th is also celebrated as "Maui Day" in Hawaii, in honor of the demigod Maui who is said to have pulled the Hawaiian islands out of the sea with his fishing hook. The day is celebrated with cultural events and activities throughout the state.