Before I researched the issue. I assumed that the Ukulele originated in Hawaii. But that is not true. The History of the Ukulele Began in Portugal.

The story of the Ukulele’s journey to Hawaii began during the 1800s–at about the same time that Jerusha Bromley moved to that island paradise in Michener’s epic drama Hawaii. Fortunately, the Ukulele was a better gift than those which were brought by other outsiders.

“The ukulele, also called a uke (informally), is a member of the lute (ancient guitar) family of instruments. The ukulele is of Portuguese origin and was popularized in Hawaii. The tone and volume of the instrument vary with size and construction. Ukuleles commonly come in four sizes: soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone.” Wikipedia

I have always been mesmerized by the Hawaiian culture–and I guess my fascination was based on my Hollywood-tinged view. And that view always included at least one ukulele. In my mind, the Ukulele is a Hawaiian instrument:

Iz cemented the idea that the Ukulele is a Hawaiian Instrument with His Somewhere Over the Rainbow:

How to Play Somewhere Over the Rainbow + Wonderful World Like Iz – Who Was Israel Kamakawiwoʻole