Hawaiian sovereignty and nationalism: History, perspectives and movements

This thesis analyzes three divergent perspectives regarding the current status of the Hawaiian nation and aboriginal Hawaiians. The disparities over perspectives of the political and legal status of the Hawaiian nation and aboriginal Hawaiians are linked to the disparity over the root of legitimate control, influenced through significant legislation, international and domestic laws, and informs the actions of nationalist and anti-nationalist initiatives in Hawai'i. Some nationalists look to International Law and appeal to the International Court of Arbitration in the face of American occupation. Others follow the de-colonization process already laid out by international instruments. Yet others prescribe to a strategy that centers on aboriginal Hawaiian needs and efforts of reparation and reconciliation through U.S. domestic laws. Each avenue has positive and negative aspects, which will affect the future of aboriginal Hawaiian as well as everyone in Hawai'i.