Hawaii: Islands under the Influence

by Noel J. Kent, Daniel B. Boylan (Foreword by)

When this book first appeared, it opened a new and innovative perspective on Hawaii's history and contemporary dilemmas. Now, several decades later, its themes of dependency, mis­development, and elitism dominate Hawaii's economic evolution more than ever. The author updates his study with an overview of the Japanese investment spree of the late 1980s, the impact of national economic restructuring on the tourism industry in Hawaii, the continuing crises of local politics, and the Hawaiian sovereignty movement as a potential source of renewal.

246 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1983

Reviews

[Benjamin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very readable and easy to follow. The author tracks Hawaii's economic development into the 20th century using the dependency framework. The book is an important reference point to inform perspectives about Hawaii's current economic status and the erasure of indigenous communities.

[Kerry · Rating 4 out of 5]

A deeply insightful and illuminating read. My only complaint is the passive voice in which the author explained the degradation, manipulation, and exploitation of the Hawaiian Islands. I find that when you allow those who have the power to remain comfortable, often they will do nothing to change.

[Clifford · Rating 4 out of 5]

A rare find of objective history, discounting the christian myth that Calvinist Missionaries were somehow forthright in their attempt at colonizing Hawaii.