The grammar structure in Hawaii Sign Language also differentiates it from ASL, Woodward noted.

CNN: Researchers document distinctive Hawaii Sign Language

While the now-prevailing ASL has rubbed off some, Woodward said it's been relatively minimal among those practicing Hawaii Sign Language.

CNN: Researchers document distinctive Hawaii Sign Language

For example, the Hawaii Sign Language word for father is to wag your finger -- whereas in ASL, it's an open hand with fingers spread and a thumb to the forehead.

CNN: Researchers document distinctive Hawaii Sign Language

Backers of the idea say that Louisiana, New Mexico and Hawaii all had to deal with language issues, and managed it.

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Derek Bickerton, a linguist at the University of Hawaii, argues that if pre-modern humans had had language, this would have given them the ability to share complex information, and to co-operate in sophisticated ways.

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That's what the Hawaii university researchers say happened -- even if few realized that a distinctive sign language existed for decades on the island until now.

CNN: Researchers document distinctive Hawaii Sign Language

For example, a "Native Hawaiian" need not be able to demonstrate: residency in Hawaii (either currently or at any time in the past), ties to a particular traditional culture or language, or any documented involvement or interest in Hawaiian, much less Native Hawaiian, community or political affairs.

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