Hawaii became a state August 21, 1959, but it was annexed to the US on August 12, 1898. Only four states were independent before they became part of the United States. Vermont, California and Texas were each republics. But Hawaii was a sovereign kingdom until the monarchy was overthrown by American and European sugar and pineapple barons in 1893. Queen Liliuokalani abdicated her throne and was imprisoned in an upstairs bedroom in Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on American soil. During her imprisonment, she wrote the simple and poignant song, Aloha Oe. She and her only companion, Mrs. Evelyn Wilson, constructed an amazing crazy quilt before being released in 1896. The quilt is currently on display in the palace. I’ve always wanted to travel to Hawaii. If I ever make it there, I meant to visit the Pearl Harbor memorial, the Polynesian Cultural Center, and the Iolani Palace to see that quilt.
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