Where did the ukulele originate?

The Ukulele originated in the 19th century as a Hawaiian interpretation of a small guitar-like instrument called a machete or braguinha brought to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrants from the islands of Madeira. They were coming to work in the sugar cane fields and the group included 3 individuals that became instrument makers.

The first ukuleles were made in Hawaii. They were made by Portuguese immigrants as early as 1879. They were based on similar instruments that were found in Portugal.