key term - Portuguese Immigration

Definition

Portuguese immigration refers to the movement of individuals from Portugal to Hawaii during the 19th century, driven primarily by labor demands in the sugar plantations. This immigration significantly influenced Hawaii's demographic makeup, economy, and cultural landscape as Portuguese immigrants brought their traditions, skills, and a strong work ethic to the islands.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Portuguese immigration to Hawaii began in the 1870s, with many immigrants coming from the Azores and Madeira islands due to economic hardships.
2. These immigrants were primarily recruited to work on sugar plantations, filling labor shortages after the decline of native Hawaiian workers.
3. Portuguese laborers played a crucial role in the development of Hawaii's sugar industry, helping to establish it as one of the leading sugar producers in the world.
4. The cultural impact of Portuguese immigrants can still be seen today in Hawaii, particularly through traditional foods, music, and festivals such as 'Festa do Senhor Santo Cristo.'
5. Over time, Portuguese immigrants and their descendants contributed to the melting pot of cultures in Hawaii, blending their customs with those of other ethnic groups on the islands.

Review Questions

• How did Portuguese immigration shape the labor force in Hawaii during the 19th century?
  • Portuguese immigration significantly shaped the labor force in Hawaii by providing a steady influx of workers for the booming sugar plantations. As native Hawaiian workers began to decline due to various factors, plantation owners sought labor from different immigrant groups, including Portuguese. These workers not only filled essential roles but also brought their unique skills and strong work ethic, helping to boost productivity and growth within the agricultural sector.
• Discuss the cultural contributions of Portuguese immigrants to Hawaii and how they have influenced local traditions.
  • Portuguese immigrants contributed significantly to Hawaii's cultural landscape by introducing their customs, culinary traditions, and festivals. Dishes like 'malasadas' (fried doughnuts) became popular in local cuisine, while music and dance forms such as 'fado' influenced Hawaiian entertainment. The annual 'Festa do Senhor Santo Cristo' reflects the deep-rooted Portuguese heritage that persists today, showcasing how these immigrants have integrated their traditions into the broader Hawaiian culture.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of Portuguese immigration on Hawaii’s economic and social structures throughout the 19th century.
  • The long-term impacts of Portuguese immigration on Hawaii’s economic and social structures were profound. Economically, their labor helped solidify Hawaii's position as a leading sugar producer, which played a key role in its integration into global markets. Socially, as Portuguese families settled in Hawaii, they contributed to a multicultural society that embraced diversity. This blending of cultures not only enriched Hawaiian society but also laid the groundwork for future generations' shared identity, reflecting a fusion of ethnic backgrounds that continues to define Hawaii today.

Related terms

Sugar Plantations: Large agricultural estates in Hawaii that produced sugar cane, which became a major economic driver and attracted a diverse workforce including immigrants.

Contract Labor System: A labor system where workers were recruited through contracts to work for a set period, often in harsh conditions, commonly used in Hawaii during the plantation era.

Cultural Assimilation: The process by which immigrants adopt the cultural practices and norms of their new country while still maintaining some aspects of their original culture.