1. On August 22, 1959, Hawaii officially became the 50th state of the United States. This significant event ended over a century of diplomatic and political negotiations between the Kingdom of Hawaii and the U.S. government.

2. In 1778, Captain James Cook and his crew arrived in Waimea Bay in Kauai, Hawaii, marking the first recorded European contact with the Hawaiian Islands. Cook's visit paved the way for future exploration and colonization of the region.

3. On August 22, 1888, the first steam-powered sugarcane mill opened in Hawaii, revolutionizing the state's sugar industry. The mill, located in Koloa, Kauai, was considered a modern marvel at the time and helped to boost Hawaii's economy.

4. In 1963, Hurricane Ava struck the Hawaiian Islands, causing widespread damage and flooding. The storm caused over $12 million in damages and claimed the lives of six people.

5. August 22 is also known as Queen Liliuokalani Day, a holiday that commemorates the birthday of Hawaii's last reigning monarch. Queen Liliuokalani is celebrated for her efforts to preserve Hawaiian culture and sovereignty during a time of significant political upheaval and foreign influence.