### Question
How does the law define Native Hawaiian?


### Answer
Under *54 U.S.C. § 300313*, **Native Hawaiian** is defined as:

> any individual who is a descendant of the aboriginal people who, prior to 1778, occupied and exercised sovereignty in the area that now constitutes Hawaii

#### Citation:
  - *54 U.S.C. § 300313*
  - Heading: **Subtitle III-National Preservation Programs > DIVISION A-HISTORIC PRESERVATION > Subdivision 1-General Provisions > CHAPTER 3003-DEFINITIONS**

