In the 19th century, Mexican cowboys were imported to Hawaii to instruct the locals in the art of cattle herding.¹ These Spanish-speaking cattle men did not just introduce the 'paniolo' (cowboy) lifestyle to the Hawaiians, they also introduced the ukulele.²

Puerto Ricans too, specifically Puerto Ricans of indigenous descent, also came to Hawaii and set down their roots there. The Boricua were brought over to be plantation workers, and in some cases, their consent was doubtful. For more information on Boricua history in Hawaii, see Resources below.

Resources:

Boricua Migration to Hawaii and Meaning of Caribbean Indigenous Resistance, Survival and Presence on the Island of Boriken (Puerto Rico) (by Tony Castanha)

Books on Puerto Ricans in Hawaii