The agricultural history of Hawaii began with the arrival of Polynesians around 1,500 years ago, who cultivated crops like taro and sweet potatoes. They developed sophisticated irrigation systems and terraced farming techniques to adapt to the islands' diverse landscapes. In the 19th century, sugarcane and pineapple became dominant cash crops, driven by demand from the mainland United States and international markets. Large plantations emerged, leading to significant immigration, particularly from China, Japan, and the Philippines, which shaped the cultural and economic landscape of the islands.