The Hawaiian Kingdom Was Taken Twice: Why July 31 Still Matters

What if one of the most important dates in Hawaii history is also one most visitors never learn about?

For Hawaii travelers and people who love the islands, understanding July 31 helps explain why Hawaiian sovereignty is not just history, but part of a living conversation today.

👉 Hit play now to understand how Hawaii lost control of its government twice, why it was restored once, and why that difference still matters.

If you’ve ever wondered how to better understand the history behind the Hawaii you visit, this episode is for you.

I’ll walk you through the key events clearly so you can travel with more context and respect.

In this episode of Hawaii’s Best, we examine Sovereignty Restoration Day and the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom so you can better understand Hawaiʻi’s history and its impact today.

👉In this episode, you will:

• Learn how the Hawaiian Kingdom regained its sovereignty on July 31, 1843.
• Understand how the 1893 overthrow differed from the earlier British occupation.
• See why this history matters when visiting places like ʻIolani Palace and hearing conversations about Hawaiian sovereignty.

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to understand why July 31 still matters in Hawaii.

🎧 Related episodes:

• The Ban and Revitalization of the Hawaiian Language with Kahanuola Solatorio
• Waikīkī’s Past with Kamaka Pili
• How to Engage With Hawaiian Culture Responsibly with Kamaka Dias

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🤓 Chapters:

0:38 Why July 31 Matters
1:14 1843 British Occupation
2:20 Sovereignty Restored
3:04 Bayonet Constitution Shift
3:49 1893 Overthrow Begins
4:51 Annexation And Apology
5:32 Travel With Context
6:43 How To Visit Responsibly

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🌴 Plan Your Hawaii Trip With Bryan

About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan respectful Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & cultural insight.

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Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, & local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island.

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