 Portuguese of Hawaii |
Today, there are many cultures in Hawaii that represent the island's rich cultural heritage. One of these ethnicities include the Portuguese. The Portuguese make up about six percent of the state's population. In 1940, the Portuguese were officially recognized by the census as Caucasian. |
The Portuguese brought the
ukulele to Hawaii. This guitar-like instrument, the
ukulele, is still used today. The brand name, Kamaka, is
very popular and people who want to buy it many times go
on waiting lists. We also still eat Portuguese bean soup.
They also brought delicious treats such as malasadas,
(Portuguese donuts), and tasty sausages. All of these
scrumptious foods are still chosen today for meals and
snacks. Most importantly, the Portuguese originated the
Paniolo, (Hawaiian cowboys). These cowboys originated the
cattle industry for Hawaii.
The Portuguese participate in many aspects of Hawaii's expanding economy and lifestyle. Presently, many Portuguese are represented in all areas of business. Many are employed in managment in larger companies, while many are small business owners. Many are skilled craftsmen and mechanics. There are numerous Portuguese in politics and law. However, there are only a few who practice medicine as physicians. With two thousand practicing physicians in the state, there are only five percent, or one hundred that are Portuguese. Many famous and successful Portuguese people live in Hawaii. These include Frank De Lima, a well known comedian, Glenn Medeiros, a singer and record producer, and John Henry Felix, a councilman.
Today, the Portuguese understand that there is an importance to preserve the Portuguese culture. This has marked a new trend among the Portuguese as a renewal of their ethnic culture. They want to keep their culture alive by separating it from the Caucasian culture. In 1978, the Portuguese celebrated the centennial of their arrival to Hawaii.
They are successful
individuals that show how people of the Portuguese
descent have come long ways since the Portuguese first
came to Hawaii. The Portuguese have brought us a rich
culture and heritage. Hawaii is a much better place to
live in because of their being here.
Portuguese in Hawaii
doing plantation work.
Portuguese History
http://www.islander-magazine.com/port.html
Information on Portuguese
http://blogshot.blogspot.com/
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Elementary |