When word got out that there was a chain of islands full of native people to convert, Christian missionaries made multiple bee lines to Hawai’i. Then James Cook sailed in on his ship in 1778, “discovering” the islands, and changed things forever. They were a very healthy, happy, strong people. As far as anybody can tell or remember, quality of life was high. The Hawaiians created resource management systems that allowed for abundance – and a population similar to today – without destroying the environment.

They navigated their canoes using the waves, wind, and stars and brought everything they would need for a fresh start in an unknown land. But I believe it’s the heart of this often hostile subject.Ģ000~ years ago, voyaging people came ashore on the most isolated land masses in the world – Hawai’i. This is a less romantic rendering than you’re used to. So if you wouldn’t mind, indulge me whilst I rock the boat. But it misses the main point that, I believe, causes this to be such a heated issue: the history of Hawai’i, cultural appropriation, and colonialism.Īs someone who lives in the islands, I feel like that’s a perspective I can try to add to the conversation. I don’t have a problem with the post it’s fine, I guess. yook thing is “ridiculous” and he goes on to say that if you’re Hawaiian – great! Say it however, but if you’re NOT Hawaiian, as long as you strum along and don’t rock the boat, you’re cool. Barry Maz’s post Please Stop Arguing Over How Ukulele Is Pronounced got me back in the saddle again when it came out. I’ve wanted to write this for a long time, but have struggled to figure out my approach. Search Google and you’ll find plenty of forum threads on the subject. Some common answers you will see are: “whatever works for you,” “different strokes for different folks,” or “just have fun!” These all fall in the same vein of the ukulele being a casual, enjoyment-oriented pursuit for 90% of people.īut try asking these friendly folks about how to pronounce or spell “ ukulele” and tempers flare! Everybody seems to have an opinion and discussion can become very heated.

The internet is chock-full of ukulele advice these days.

Hawaiian okina i