. By 23landerson 600 Polynesean's first arrive in Hawaii 1000 Coastal settlements begin to cultivate food 1200 laws and social structure begin to develop 1500 Hawaii begins to take up more islands 1778 Captain cook discovers Hawaii. As a result of this, Hawaii's population begins declining due to forced labour. 1810 All of Hawaii under British control 1816 First signs of tourism merge in Hawaii 1835 First sugar plantation established on Kauai Island 1959 Hawaii becomes USA's 50th state