Not surprisingly, Hawaii boasts the most unique official symbols of any state. Hawaiian symbols are also refreshingly sensible.Hawaii/Introduction is one of the seven states (Arizona, Hawaii, Michigan, Nevada, New Mexico, Ohio and West Virginia) that have adopted none of the four most redundant symbols—the honeybee, square dance, milk and English (usually designated the official insect, dance, beverage or drink and language).
The nicknames Youngest State and Pineapple State are descriptive. However, the islands’ fabulous beauty are better suggested by the more popular nicknames Aloha State and Paradise of the Pacific.
Nature Symbols
Hawaii’s official plant symbols are limited to a flower (a hibiscus) and tree (kukui), both introduced species. It boasts the only flightless state bird, the nene or Hawaiian goose. The only land mammal native to Hawaii is the hoary bat. But the humpback whale proved more popular and was designated the official marine mammal.
The almost official fish is the Hawaiian triggerfish, which is revered for its native name: humuhumunukunukuapua’a. No other state has adopted a surviving coral species as an official symbol. (A few states have adopted fossil corals). Unfortunately, Hawaiians designated black coral the official gem, celebrating its exploitation for the tourist industry.
Hawaii is one of the few states with no official mineral, rock or gem. Lack of an official fossil is to be expected, since so few fossils are found in the volcanic islands. But Hawaii does have an official soil, Hilo.
Cultural Symbols
Hawaii’s distinctive cultural symbols commemorate native Hawaiians. While several mainland states have proclaimed English their official language, Hawaii adopted Hawaiian. The official dance is the Hula, a welcome relief from the square dance.
Hawaii is the only state with two official sports. Surfing was designated the official individual sport, outrigger canoe paddling the official team sport.
The Hawaiian culture is even represented by the state motto (Ua Mau ke Ea o ka Aina i ka Pono) and anthem (Hawaiì Ponoì).
The most glaring symbol of Hawaii’s colonial legacy is its state flag. Though it ranks among the better designed state flags, it is clearly inspired by the British Union Jack, a reminder that the islands were discovered by Captain James Cook, who was killed by the natives.
The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism - 
