1959 admission

Definition

The 1959 admission refers to the formal process through which Hawaii became the 50th state of the United States on August 21, 1959. This pivotal event marked a significant transition for Hawaii, reflecting both its unique cultural identity and the broader context of American expansion and statehood during the mid-20th century. The admission process involved political negotiations, public referendums, and considerable advocacy from local leaders and communities, all highlighting the aspirations of Hawaiians for greater representation and autonomy within the U.S.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hawaii's path to statehood included several attempts and proposals dating back to the early 1900s, culminating in a successful push in the late 1950s.
2. In a referendum held on June 27, 1959, over 90% of voters in Hawaii supported the move towards statehood, showcasing widespread local support.
3. The admission of Hawaii was influenced by various factors including World War II, which increased its strategic importance to the United States.
4. Hawaii's admission as a state was also notable because it was the first state to be admitted after World War II, symbolizing post-war expansion and integration.
5. Cultural considerations were significant; advocates argued that statehood would provide better protection for Hawaiian culture and promote economic growth.

Review Questions

• How did the events leading up to the 1959 admission reflect the aspirations of local communities in Hawaii?
  • The events leading up to the 1959 admission highlighted local communities' desire for greater representation and autonomy within the U.S. Political movements advocating for statehood emphasized civil rights and addressed issues such as economic disparity and cultural preservation. The overwhelming support shown in the 1959 referendum demonstrated a collective aspiration among Hawaiians for recognition as equal citizens in the Union.
• What role did World War II play in shaping Hawaii's path to statehood in 1959?
  • World War II significantly impacted Hawaii's path to statehood by enhancing its strategic importance as a military base in the Pacific. The war effort brought an influx of resources and attention to Hawaii, which helped raise awareness about its unique position within the United States. This shift contributed to growing sentiments for statehood post-war, as many believed that Hawaii deserved equal rights and representation following its contributions during the conflict.
• Evaluate the implications of Hawaii's admission in 1959 for both local culture and U.S. policy regarding territories and states.
  • Hawaii's admission in 1959 had profound implications for local culture and U.S. policy. For locals, it meant a greater platform for cultural expression and legal protections under federal law. However, it also initiated complex dynamics regarding identity, as some Hawaiians felt that statehood could dilute traditional practices. From a policy perspective, Hawaii's admission represented a shift in U.S. attitudes towards territories, signaling a willingness to integrate diverse regions into the Union while also raising questions about how future territories might navigate similar paths to statehood.

Related terms

Territory of Hawaii: The political designation for Hawaii from 1898 until its statehood in 1959, during which it was governed as a U.S. territory with limited rights.

Statehood Movement: A grassroots campaign that emerged in the early 20th century advocating for Hawaii's transition from a territory to a full-fledged state, emphasizing civil rights and representation.

Public Law 86-3: The federal legislation that enabled Hawaii's admission as the 50th state, following a successful referendum in which a majority of voters supported statehood.