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North America occupies the northern portion of the landmass generally referred to as the New World. It is bordered on the north by the Arctic Ocean, on the east by the North Atlantic Ocean, on the southeast by the Caribbean Sea, and on the south and west by the North Pacific Ocean.
North America covers an area of about 24,490,000 square kilometers (9,450,000 sq mi), about 4.8 percent of the planet's surface or about 16.4% of its land area. |
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The State of Hawaii is located in the Central Pacific, 2,300 miles from continental United States. Hawaii joined the United States on August 21, 1959.
Politically, Hawaii is considered to be a part of the North American continent.
Hawaii encompasses the volcanic Hawaiian Island chain which is made up of hundreds of islands spread over 1,500 miles. The eight largest islands, Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lānai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and Hawaii (the Big Island), are considered the "main islands".
Nearly 10 million tourists visit Hawaii each year. Many Hawaiian ceremonies and traditions have survived modernization and remain very popular especially the lei (flower necklace), hula (dance), and luau (feast).
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 Hawaiian State Flag
In 1816, Kamehameha the Great commissioned the Hawaiian Flag. Though Hawaii's independence was briefly challenged in 1843 by Lord Paulette, Great Britain sent Admiral Thomas to officially restore and recognize Hawaii's sovereignty and flag on July 31, 1843.
The eight alternating white, red and blue stripes represent the eight islands of Hawaii. The British Union Jack represents Hawaii's historical relationship with Great Britain.
The Hawaiian State Seal and Motto
Ua mau ke ea o ka aina i ka pono The life (sovereignty) of the land is
perpetuated in (by) righteousness.
Hawaiian Climate and Vegetation
Hawaii is warm throughout the year, with an average temperature of 75-85° F (24-29° C). There are only two seasons "summer" between May and October and "winter" between October and April. Hawaii grows coffee beans, bananas, macadamia nuts, sugar cane and pineapple. Flowers grow in abundance year round. Leis (necklaces) are made from fresh flowers.
Aloha
Aloha is a well known and versatile Hawaiian word. It can mean hello, goodbye, love or affection. Used in combination with other words, it can mean good morning, good afternoon, or good evening. Because of aloha’s unique meaning and popularity, Hawaii is called the Aloha State.
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