The Myth and History of Hawaii Hawaiian legend says that the demigod named Maui pulled the Hawaiian Islands from the depths of the sea. But it was King Kamehameha I who was successful in unifying all the islands under his rule after the Battle of Kepaniwai in Iao Valley in 1790, and Maui became part of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Today the site of the battle is a State Park where many admire the majestic beauty of the Iao Valley. In 1802, Lahaina, a major whaling port, was declared the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom by King Kamehameha. Lahaina’s history is displayed at the Lahaina Heritage Museum. Lahaina is still recognized as one of Maui’s most historic towns and features great dining, entertainment, various types of art, and plenty of shopping. Hawaiian Culture - Hawaiiana Mount Haleakala is a massive, dormant volcano which covers about 75% of Maui Island. Haleakala, meaning the “House of the Sun”, is a national landmark that holds and protects many natural wonders that are important to the Hawaiian culture. From hiking and camping to researching and preserving, one must experience all Haleakala has to offer. The Hawaiian culture is an amalgamation of the many different ethnic groups which have come to call the islands home over the past 200 years. Though each group contributed its own cultural elements, all Hawaiians today have embraced a commonality that is the “Spirit of Aloha”. “Hawaiiana” is a term used to refer to the history of Hawaii and the various aspects of its culture, primarily in respect to the periods of antiquity and the period of royal rule of the Hawaiian Islands. Though most of the cultural practices common during the early history of the islands are no longer a way of life, some are celebrated in various exhibits and entertainment venues. For example, the Hula was believed to be first performed by Goddess Laka, and therefore sacred and only to be flawlessly performed for religious purposes. However, it was outlawed by Christian missionaries who had come to the islands. Then, King Kalakaua came to rule and reinstated the practice. Today the Hula dance is performed in various versions for entertainment, as well as important official events. The Hula has evolved into different forms. The Hula Kahiko is the old traditional dancing that generally involves drumming, chanting, and traditional costumes. The Hula Auana is the more modern Hula and usually is accompanied by Hawaiian music and beautiful costumes. No longer is it just performed for religious or official functions, but the Hula can be experienced at shopping malls, luaus, or the Maui Arts & Cultural Center. The most internationally recognized event for the Hula is the Merrie Monarch which is held in Hilo, Hawaii starting on Easter Sunday. It is a week-long festival that includes art exhibits, craft fairs, demonstrations, performances, and a 3-day Hula competition. The grand finale of the event includes a parade and an Awards Ceremony on the final night. |