America Goes Hawaiian: The Influence of Pacific Island Culture on the Mainland
Formats: E-Book, Paperback
Ages: 12-15, 16-18, 18+
How did Hawaiian and Polynesian culture come to dramatically alter American music, fashion and decor, as well as ideas about race, in less than a century?
It began with mainland hula and musical performances in the late 19th century, rose dramatically as millions shipped to Hawaii during the Pacific War, then made big leap with the advent of low-cost air travel.
By the end of the 1950s, mainlanders were hosting tiki parties, listening to exotic music, lazing on rattan furniture in Hawaiian shirts and, of course, surfing. Increasingly, they were marrying people outside of their own racial groups as well. The author describes how this cultural conquest came about and the people and events that led to it.
Reviews
America Goes Hawaiian: The Influence of Pacific Island Culture on the Mainland by Geoff Alexander is a wonderful and fact-filled story on the depth of influence Hawaiian and Polynesian culture has had on America, and, in fact, worldwide culture. Geoff brings life to how the area was “discovered” by the American mainland, and in detailed fashion explains many of the items of cultural impact that we take for granted today. From the days of sailing to the Islands to the first overseas flights, he captures the spirit of the culture and takes you back to simpler times and the laid back feel of Hawaiian music, the lifestyle, wardrobes, and cuisine of Hawaii. It makes you want to go back if you’ve already been, or go and stay if you haven’t. I highly recommend this fascinating and incredibly accurate depiction of Hawaii and its’ culture. Geoff is so detail oriented, that he includes a virtual cornucopia of reference information, including links to music and other cultural items that will keep you fascinated while finding new, and sometimes familiar, sights and sounds of Hawaii. Don’t miss this one.
