In the crucial first years that followed statehood, as growth swept over Hawai'i with hurricane force, the architect of change was John A. Burns, who served three terms as governor.
As a prelude to these years, Burns had done more than most men. He helped engineer the great Democratic revolution in 1954 that toppled the Republican Party's hold on power in the Territorial Legislature. Two years later, Burns was elected as Hawai'i's delegate to Congress and began working for statehood.
He was elected governor in 1962 and re-elected in 1966 and 1970.
Throughout his career in public office, one of his major aims was to restructure Hawai'i's social system. He saw the Democratic party as a vehicle to right social wrongs. In fighting for racial equality and educational opportunity, Burns helped dismantle the plantation oligarchy and its tight financial controls.
Burns had a special bond with Hawai'i's Japanese-Americans, serving as their champion during World War II and later, as a father figure to young men seeking to make an impact. He helped them transition from a subservient role to one of leadership in a new state.
Most of the state's major highways were constructed during his time in office, and Burns also spent millions of dollars on the Honolulu International Airport. The state's public school system under Burns enjoyed its greatest period of expansion ever.
Working closely with fellow Democrats, Burns sent large sums of money to the University of Hawai'i in an effort to improve it. During his administration, the state also created a community college system.
When Burns died in 1975 from colon cancer, it was said that one contribution stood out among all others. During an era of change, upheaval and redistribution of power, Hawai'i could have easily experienced a wave of racial animosity.
But not under Burns, who guided the state clear of disaster through wise and conciliatory leadership.
Reach Mike Gordon at mgordon@honoluluadvertiser.com.
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