The State Flag of Hawaii

The state flag of Hawaii contains elements of both England and America, representing a union and the special place Hawaii occupies in the history of both countries. The flag was also used when Hawaii was a republic, kingdom, protectorate and territory, under both the United States and the United Kingdom.

History

Originally, the Union Jack was flown by King Kamehameha, given to him by explorer George Vancouver. After he was notified that flying a British flag could cause international tension, Kamehameha took it down. During the War of 1812, he flew an American flag to mitigate any tension between Hawaii and the United States. British members of Kamehameha's court objected, and this gave birth to the hybrid form.

Governor's Flag

The governor of Hawaii flies a special flag, which consists of a blue upper half and a red lower half. In the center are eight white stars in a circle around the word "Hawaii."

Kanaka Maoli Flag

This flag is considered the native flag of Hawaii, as the current one represents colonial interests. It consists of a red, yellow and green striped background, with the official coat of arms of the Kingdom of Hawaii in the center.

With such a strange and long history between two nations, it is only natural that the state flag of Hawaii has elements of both. It is also interesting to note the other flags that represent the island state. Because it retained sovereignty for so long, it is understandable that it has so many different principalities claiming the flag.