The official admission of Hawaii as the 50th state of the United States was finalized when President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the admission proclamation. Following a long history of interactions between Hawaii and the United States, including the annexation of the islands in 1898, Hawaii's journey to statehood was complex and multifaceted. Leading up to this proclamation, Hawaii underwent numerous political transformations, including periods of both self-governance and increased oversight by Washington. The push for statehood was intensified after World War II when Hawaii proved its strategic military importance and its diverse population's commitment to American ideals during the conflict.

Hawaii had been a territory of the United States since 1900, and its residents were actively advocating for statehood as early as the 1930s. By the 1950s, public sentiment had shifted, and the demand for statehood gained bipartisan support in Congress. Following the passage of the Hawaii Admission Act by Congress in March 1959, a referendum was held among Hawaiian residents, with over 90% voting in favor of joining the Union. Eisenhower’s signature on the executive order not only finalized the legal process but also symbolized a recognition of Hawaii's unique identity and contributions.

The commemoration of Hawaii Admission Day continues to be an essential cultural event, signifying the integration of Hawaii into the United States and celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures that characterize the islands. Parades, festivities, and educational programs are organized annually throughout the state, reinforcing a sense of pride and belonging among Hawaii’s residents.