January 5 is a significant day in Hawaii's history, marked by several notable events that have shaped the state's culture and identity. Here are five interesting facts about January 5 in Hawaii history:
1. The first sugar plantation was established on January 5, 1835, in Koloa, Kauai. The plantation was founded by Ladd & Company, a partnership between a group of American merchants and Hawaiian chiefs. Over the years, sugar became Hawaii's primary export crop, leading to the growth of numerous plantations and the influx of immigrant workers from Asia and Europe.
2. In 1893, on January 5th, Queen Lili'uokalani surrendered the Hawaiian monarchy to the United States. Queen Lili'uokalani was the last reigning monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaii and was overthrown in a coup spearheaded by American businessmen with the support of the U.S. military. This event marked the end of Hawaii's independence and triggered a long and contentious process of annexation by the United States.
3. On January 5, 1909, the Mauna Loa volcano erupted, sending lava flows down the mountain toward Hilo on the east side of the Big Island. The eruption lasted for several weeks and caused extensive damage to the surrounding areas. Mauna Loa is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and has erupted 33 times since its first recorded eruption in 1843.
4. In 1970, on January 5th, Kauai native Gary Prater became the first person to swim across the Ala Wai Canal in Waikiki. The Ala Wai Canal is a man-made waterway that runs through Honolulu and is known for its polluted waters. Prater's feat was viewed as a testament to his endurance and athleticism and earned him national recognition.
5. On January 5, 2013, the Hōkūle‘a, a traditional Hawaiian sailing canoe, departed from Oahu on a worldwide voyage to promote environmental awareness and cultural exchange. The Hōkūle‘a is a replica of the ancient canoes used by Polynesians to navigate the Pacific Ocean and is considered an important symbol of Hawaiian heritage. The voyage took three years to complete, covering over 60,000 nautical miles and visiting 23 countries.
5 Fun Facts About January 5 In Hawaii History
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