Progress

Mark Twain is aware of Hawaii's history, both recent and ancient, and sees Europe's influence as generally beneficial. When addressing Hawaii's distant past, Twain is inclined to use words such as "barbaric" or "savage." Modern Hawaiians, in Twain's mind, are more civilized thanks to the efforts of Christian missionaries. While there is a sense that the author is aware that something has been lost to the Hawaiians, Twain clearly believes that natives are better for the Christian influence and is proud to see how far the Hawaiians have come.

Mark Twain seeks to advance the cause of American interests. He regards Hawaii as an untapped resource with its fertile soil and tropical climate being well suited to the production of sugar cane. He suggests that Americans move to the Hawaiian Islands to secure America's foothold in the region. Twain also suggests, after seeing "coolie" labor in Hawaii, that...