The film Act of War which depicted the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy was an interesting film shown through the eyes of Hawaiians themselves. The film, made in 1993 marked the 100 year anniversary of the overthrow. It was accurately depicted with actual pictures and reinactments of the famous (or infamous) event.
Though an estimated 1 million people live in Hawaii, a majority of the population is not Hawaiian. It is because of this that not many people know the exact details of the Hawaiian overthrow. Act of War effectively opens the eyes of viewers and explains why statehood is not a widely celebrated event. The overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy was not done in the most civilized manner- with the imprisionment of Queen Liliuokalani and the fear of signing a new constitution.
Though I agree that the way that the Hawaiians were harshly thrown out of office was done in an inappropriate way, I feel conflicted at the same time. I think that there were more humane ways of westerners imposing their beliefs and thoughts upon the Hawaiians, however I live in a different time... it's 2010, not 1893. I also feel that if the even did not occur, much of us would not be living in Hawaii to this day. I've been born and raised here and am not of Hawaiian descent. I completely agree that the Hawaiians need some form of justice and were wrongly mistreated... however I have to wonder if I would be sitting here, blogging at this computer if the overthrow had not happened.
One thing is for certain though, statehood is a touchy subject for Hawaiians and Hawaii residents alike and will continue to be for many years to come. Act of War only briefly touches upon the true feelings of Hawaii, which is still prevalent in the year 2010. Though much bad has occured because of the overthrow, much good as happened as well. Though Act of War concentrates on the predominantly negative views, we have to wonder if it didn't occur... would I be blogging to you and would you be reading this?
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