Hawaiian History and Culture
Hawaiians were flying kites before the Legaignoux brothers. Ho'olele Lupe--An Analysis of the Ancient Practice of Hawaiian Kite-flying:
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Of course, the demigod Maui was a kite flyer too.
Polynesians are credited with creating surfing. Hawaiians developed the sport more than anywhere else. This article has overview on surfing in ancient Hawaii.
How did ancient Hawaiians build surfboards?
Westerners were amazed at the sight of Hawaiians surfing.
How did Hawaiians locate land while out at sea?
The Hawaiians didn't have much use of the North Star so how did the Hawaiians navigate at night?
There was a progressive rule put in place by King Kamehameha to protect people from warriors from beating, raping and killing innocent people (like we did in Afghanistan, Iraq and Guantanamo Bay) that predates the Geneva Convention of 1949 by more than 200 years. It is called "The Law of the Splintered Paddle" or "Mamalahoe."
Here is a quick read explaining who came to own the lands in Hawaii.
Hawaii Now
If we had to summarize what an outsider (kite boarder) should know while here on the islands is be humble--we are from a different culture that can easily and unknowingly offend them. For example, if you ask them a question, they might be offended. In their culture, the teacher decides whom they teach, when they teach and what they want them to know. The student (or foreigner) is supposed to watch, listen, keep quiet and does not ask questions. Yes, it's archaic and not the most effective method of teaching but often a culture will put a greater value on tradition than the value of inclusion or well the being of others.
You might be interested in learning about the Hawaiians of today. Many people go to a luau or watch the visitor channel to get their information. If you prefer some real drama, we suggest turning of your TV and sitting in on a community meeting. You may be thoroughly entertained by some off the personalities on the island. Or you could try one of the best ways to gain more insight on the complexities of modern Kanaka Maoli (Hawaiians), browse through a monthly magazine that the Office of Hawaiian Affairs publishes called Ka Wai Ola.
You might be interested in learning about the Hawaiians of today. Many people go to a luau or watch the visitor channel to get their information. If you prefer some real drama, we suggest turning of your TV and sitting in on a community meeting. You may be thoroughly entertained by some off the personalities on the island. Or you could try one of the best ways to gain more insight on the complexities of modern Kanaka Maoli (Hawaiians), browse through a monthly magazine that the Office of Hawaiian Affairs publishes called Ka Wai Ola.
Here is an uplifting Hawaiian speech in "pidgin."
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