Hawaii's Union Jack: A Complex Legacy of Colonial Relations and Sovereignty

When the topic of the Union Jack on Hawaii's flag arises, it often provokes a mix of sentiments among native Hawaiians and Americans. This article delves into the historical significance of the Union Jack in Hawaii and the complex relationship between Hawaii and the former British Empire.

The Historical Context

The Hawaiian flag goes through various designs before the current state flag, which is unique among U.S. states for including a foreign country's national flag - the Union Jack of the United Kingdom. This symbolic inclusion is not just an aesthetic choice but a reflection of Hawaii's historical and cultural ties with the British Empire.

As the story goes, the Union Jack was a mark of the Royal Navy's historical relations with the Hawaiian Kingdom, particularly with King Kamehameha I. This was a time when Hawaii enjoyed various international recognitions and alliances, including those formed with the British.

A Troubled History

However, the story of the Union Jack in Hawaii is not a tale of unmitigated cooperation. During the 1893 overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom, the United Kingdom did not play a positive role. Instead, they attempted to colonize Hawaii, which ended in forming an alliance with the British Navy, much to the chagrin of the native Hawaiian kama'āina.

Following the British occupation, also known as the Paulet Affair, Hawaii saw a resurgence of its royal heritage in the person of King Kamehameha V. The restored kingdom sought closer connections with the British monarchy, a trend that continued before eventual American annexation.

King Kamehameha Day: A Celebration of Sovereignty

While the Union Jack holds a historical place on Hawaii's flag, it remains a contentious symbol. In particular, the King Kamehameha Day holiday on the islands commemorates not just the recovery of the kingdom but also the resilience of Hawaiian sovereignty. This day recalls the occupation by British forces and the subsequent restoration of Hawaiian rule under the leadership of King Kamehameha V.

Moreover, the history of Queen Victoria's close relationship with Hawaii's Queen Emma, Princess Ka'iulani's affinity for British royal fashions, and the influence of British education on future Hawaiian royalty adds a multi-layered perspective to the flag's symbolism.

The Paradox of American Rule

The current status of Hawaii as a U.S. state involves a complex and often contradictory narrative. While the Hawaiian flag still retains the Union Jack, it is a symbol that speaks to a past of differing relationships with various powers. Today, Hawaii faces the paradox of American rule, a legacy of 133 years of occupation and its many abuses, including environmental and cultural damage.

It's noteworthy that native Hawaiians and many island residents express their displeasure and frustration with the ongoing occupation and the misuse of resources, such as the contamination of the island's largest aquifer with jet fuel and the militarization of the land.

The Queen or Ali'i of Hawaii faced multiple challenges in asserting their sovereignty and maintaining a connection to the British monarchy, revealing the multifaceted nature of colonial and sovereign relations.

Conclusion

While the Union Jack on Hawaii's flag is a symbol of historical ties to the British Empire, it also serves as a reminder of the complex legacy of colonialism and sovereignty in Hawaii. The flag carries a mix of honor, resistance, and unresolved issues, making it a topic of debate among Hawaiians and Americans alike.

Understanding the historical context of the Union Jack on the Hawaiian flag is crucial for appreciating Hawaii's unique place in American and global history. It is a moment to reflect on the enduring impact of past colonial relations and the ongoing efforts to reclaim sovereignty and protect the Hawaiian way of life.