The ukelele, a string instrument traditionally associated with Hawaii, finds its roots in music from indigenous Hawaiian communities as well as Portugal, Spain, South America, Africa and European band music! Originating in Hawaii around 1880, this portable instrument has a distinctively small guitar-like body, a relatively short neck and gut (later nylon) strings.
By the 1920s and 30s, its popularity was widespread throughout North America, and its sound was closely associated with the early music of Tin Pan Alley and vaudeville music shows. Inexpensive models made from plastic were widely marketed up until the 1980s in the United States.
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