Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Today in History - January 18, 1778 - Cook Discovers the Hawaiian Islands

Cook Discovers the Hawaiian Islands today in 1778

    Captain James Cook discovered the Hawaiian Islands today in History. He came across these islands and named them the 'Sandwich Islands' after John Montague, the earl of Sandwich. The Hawaiian people believed that this event was sacred, and they also believed that the people that came on the ship were gods. The crew realized this after they came back a second time. The Hawaiians were worshiping their fertility god named 'Lono' and the crew was looked upon with awe, until one of the crew members died. The Hawaiians now believed the crew was taking advantage of them and they started throwing rocks at them. A big fight ensued, and Captain Cook was killed during this event. But he did discover the Hawaiian Islands and is remembered for his discovery this day.

Read the full article here: www.history.com/this-day-in-history/cook-discovers-hawaii

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