This document provides an introduction to Hawaiian culture, including details about the islands, history of the monarchy, traditional luaus, religious beliefs, instruments, hula dance, costumes, food, and resources for learning more. Hawaii consists of over 100 islands, with the main islands making up the US state. Ancient Hawaiians had a monarchy until becoming a US state in 1959. Traditional luaus involve flower leis, communal eating, and chicken wrapped in leaves as the main dish. Ancient religious beliefs centered around nature gods like Ku and Pele. Hula dance and traditional costumes incorporate tapa skirts, anklets, and head/shoulder leis. Resources suggested include books, movies, and websites for children

1. Aloha! Welcome to Hawaii! Presented by: Lindsey S., Breanne S., and Emily W.

2. A Short Introduction Hawaii consists of 8 main islands, but overall, there are 132 islands! Hawaii is associated with the Polynesians and is often categorized with other islands of similar cultures. Hawaii became part of the US in 1959. Hawaii used to have Kings and Queens! The last, and first, queen was Queen Lili’uokalani. Hawaii has no ethnic majority!

3. Let’s have a Luau Many people have heard of the Hawaiian luaus and have been to luau-themed parties, but what does an authentic luau consist of? When guests arrive, a lei (necklace of flowers) is placed around their neck as a symbol of affection The feast is eaten while seated on the ground. Luaus began around the rule of King Kamehameha II Originally, women and men ate separately, but these laws were abolished around 1819. Luaus are named after the main dish of the feast, which is called luau (chicken wrapped in a large leaf).

4. Religious Beliefs Hawaii has several gods, and most of them have to do with nature. The main god, Ku, is the god of war. The main goddess is called Pele. She is the goddess of fire and lava. The ancient Hawaiians believed that she is the cause of lava and creation of the islands. They also believed that she required human sacrifices.

5. Common Instruments

6. The Hula Form of dance revived by King David Kalakaua in 1821. In ancient times, the chants were the main importance and focus of the hula, however, the movements now hold most of the meaning. There are two main forms: 1) Kahiko 2) Auana (form most commonly viewed by public)

7. Traditional Costumes Pau’u Skirt Traditional skirts are made from leaves of the tapa plant. They are not the typical grass skirts that you see at parties with a luau theme. During the hula, leis are worn on the head and shoulders. Anklets, or kupea, are worn and made of dog-teeth or whale bone

8. Traditional Food Poi

9. Resources for Children Disney’s Lilo and Stitch Movie A is for Aloha (Hawaiian Alphabet Book) Hawai’I Volcano Books (Shows how islands formed) Drawing Book (Has a How-to Draw for the state bird, tree, and much more!)

10. Resources It’s My State: Hawaii A is for Aloha Hawai’I Volcanoes How to Draw Hawaii’s Sights and Symbols http://www.alternative-hawaii.com/hacul/hula.htm