1. In 1872, a group of Japanese immigrants, primarily from the Hiroshima area, arrived in Hawaii to work as contract laborers on sugar plantations. This marked the beginning of a significant and enduring Japanese presence in Hawaii.

2. In 1941, on this day, the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred, launching the United States into World War II. The attack caused significant damage to the harbor and the loss of many lives.

3. In 1959, on December 9th, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the legislation admitting Hawaii as the 50th state of the United States. This marked the end of a long and divisive process of statehood for Hawaii.

4. In 1968, the Makaha International Surfing Championships were held on Oahu's west coast. This was a groundbreaking event that helped establish Hawaii as a globally recognized hub for surfing culture.

5. In 2006, the Hawaii Supreme Court ruled in favor of same-sex couples seeking the right to marry, making Hawaii the first state to do so through a judicial decision. This decision helped pave the way for the eventual nationwide legalization of same-sex marriage.