The Hawaiian Islands were each independent kingdoms until 1810. At that time they were unified under a single ruler by force.

Hawaii was a unified kingdom from 1810 - 1893 and the origin of the flag was designed by commission of the reigning ruler of the Hawaiian Islands at that time (King Kamehameha I) in 1816.

It has eight stripes of white, red and blue that represent the eight main islands. The flag of Great Britain is emblazoned in the upper left corner to honor Hawaii's bond with the British at that time. It is believed that the combination of stripes from the U.S. flag and the Union Jack of Great Britain was to intended to honor the bond that the independent kingdom had with U.S. and British merchant ships. Flag adopted for official state use upon entering the union in 1959.

Among the most popular travel destinations in the world, Hawaii boasts scenic beauty, world class lodging and cuisine as well as beautiful and comfortable weather and some of the worlds best beaches.