Hawaii. An average daily temperature of 75 degrees and almost constant sunshine, combined with spectacular natural beauty, combine to make the aloha state the travel destination for visitors from around the world.
The archipelago, born of volcanic eruptions some two million years ago, extends some 1,523 miles with 132 islands, reefs, and islets. Except for the eight larger islands -- Hawaii, Ohau, Kaloolawe, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai and Niihau -- most are uninhabited.
The islands were first discovered by Polynesian explorers from Tahiti who arrived around 300 a.d. on their outrigger canoes. Captain James Cook encounted a thriving native kingdom in 1778 when he was sent to make observations of the transit of Venus.
The United States was attracted to Hawaii´s potential as a producer of sugar and fruits and in 1893 deposed the native government of Queen Liliuokalani. Annexation followed in 1898 and Hawaii officially became a U.S. territory in 1900. At this time the economy was based on agriculture -- especially sugar and pineapples. Today tourism has eclipsed agriculture as Hawaii´s economic bedrock. The great sugar and pineapple plantations are disappearing, but flowers, coffee and macadamia nuts continue to be important exports. In 1959, the island chain entered the Union as the fiftieth state. more.>>>
