About GrafixMat Coasters • Front • Back Story
About GrafixMat Coasters:
Each GrafixMat® is a work of art, masterfully laser-engraved on the cork front with a unique and amusing story colorfully illustrated on its flip-side. For a treasured gift or your own personal collection; select one or create a set of 2, 4, 6 or more from 21 themed Collections totaling more than 500 contemporary and fine art designs. Made from eco-friendly recycled cork from Portugal and Spain, yet handcrafted in the U.S.A. GrafixMats® are so artfully designed and intriguing, we've created a hanging hole in the back of each coaster.
All Natural • Durable • Easy Wash • Singles or Sets • Storage Caddies • 4 1/4" Diameter, 5/16" Thick • Green Certified
Front Design:
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The Back Story:
An Uneasy Union: Uncle Sam & Queen Liliuokalani
When U.S. President William McKinley signed a bill annexing the small island nation of Hawaii in 1898, it was not without controversy. Although Hawaii previously had been ruled by a monarchy, a small group of American Caucasians, sugar plantation owners, dominated the local economy. They had ousted Queen Liliuokalani five years earlier.
When the Queen proposed a new constitution restoring rights to the Native Hawaiian people, the land-owners seized control of the Islands with the backing of troops sent ashore from an American warship in Honolulu Harbor. The Queen yielded her throne to avoid bloodshed. Then-President Grover Cleveland opposed annexation and tried to restore the Queen. Ultimately the annexationists prevailed; Hawaii became a territory in 1900, and the 50th state in 1959.