TEACHER'S GUIDE

Time period 1838-1898

Themes
cultural values, expansionism,
politics, racism, exploitation

Lili'uokalani, who ruled Hawaii in the late 1800 moved easily between two worlds. Although deeply rooted in Hawaiian tradition, the queen dined at the White House and visited with European royalty. But as the American business community in Hawaii grew stronger, Lili'uokalani found herself trapped between the two worlds and witnessed the monarchy slip away.

Before Watching

1. How did missionaries influence colonization of the New World?

2. As students watch, have them take notes on how Americans gained political and economic power in Hawaii.

After Watching

1. How were missionaries portrayed in the program? Did this portrayal surprise you? Why or why not?

2. How did Americans gain political and economic power in Hawaii? How were the experiences of Hawaiians and Native Americans in the 1800s similiar or different? Have students research how U.S. laws have changed the lives of Native American groups.

3. Who or what influenced changes in Hawaiian culture? How were Lili'uokalani's identity and values influenced by Hawaiian and American cultures? Ask students to write about how their own identities, values, or daily lives are influenced by different cultures.

4. What factors inspire nationalism? When is it beneficial? When is it dangerous? How did it influence Hawaiians and Americans in the program?

5. Compare the leadership styles of Lili'uokalani and her brother. What were their strengths and weaknesses? What were the strengths and weaknesses of leaders in other countries and historical periods?