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Hawaii's political landscape shifted dramatically after Queen Liliuokalani's overthrow. The Provisional Government and Republic of Hawaii replaced the monarchy, while annexation attempts faced opposition. Native Hawaiians resisted through counter-revolutions and anti-annexation organizations.

The Ku'e Petitions showcased widespread Native Hawaiian opposition to annexation. With over 21,000 signatures, they influenced U.S. senators and contributed to the initial failure of the 1897 annexation treaty. This historical record continues to impact contemporary sovereignty movements.

Political Developments and Opposition to Annexation

Political developments in Hawaii

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  • Provisional Government (1893-1894) established after Queen Liliuokalani's overthrow led by Sanford B. Dole governed Hawaii temporarily
  • Republic of Hawaii (1894-1898) replaced constitutional monarchy with oligarchic republic after failed annexation attempt
  • Annexation attempts in 1893 (President Harrison) and 1897 (President McKinley) faced opposition and initially failed
  • Liliuokalani formally protested to U.S. government and appealed to President Cleveland to restore monarchy
  • Native Hawaiian resistance movements included 1895 Royalist counter-revolution and formation of anti-annexation political organizations (Hui Aloha 'Aina)

Significance of Ku'e Petitions

  • Organized by Hui Aloha 'Aina and Hui Kalai'aina to demonstrate widespread opposition to annexation
  • Over 21,000 signatures collected representing majority of Native Hawaiian population
  • Delivered to U.S. Congress in Washington D.C. influencing some senators to oppose annexation treaty
  • Contributed to initial failure of 1897 annexation treaty showcasing Native Hawaiian unity
  • Preserved historical record of Native Hawaiian sentiment continues to influence contemporary sovereignty movements

U.S. Debate and Annexation

Congressional debate on annexation

  • Pro-annexation arguments stressed Hawaii's strategic military importance, economic benefits, and preventing foreign acquisition
  • Anti-annexation concerns included imperialism, constitutionality, racial prejudices, and potential economic competition
  • Key figures: Senator John Tyler Morgan (pro-annexation) and Senator Richard Pettigrew (anti-annexation) led opposing sides
  • 1897 treaty failed due to lack of two-thirds majority while 1898 Newlands Resolution passed by simple majority

Spanish-American War's impact on Hawaii

  • Hawaii's strategic importance as Navy refueling station and Philippines operations staging area heightened
  • Annexation urgency increased due to fears of Spanish or Japanese interference
  • U.S. foreign policy shifted towards Pacific expansion and overseas territories
  • War-time patriotism boosted annexation support reducing congressional opposition

Consequences for Native Hawaiian sovereignty

  • Independent nationhood lost as Hawaiian government institutions dissolved and integrated into U.S. territorial system
  • Crown and government lands transferred to U.S. control displacing Native Hawaiians from ancestral lands
  • Hawaiian language suppressed in schools and Americanization policies affected traditional practices
  • U.S. corporate control of Hawaiian economy increased changing land use and agricultural practices
  • Hawaiian sovereignty debate continues shaping modern sovereignty movement
  • Native Hawaiians became U.S. citizens developing complex relationship with federal government

Key Terms to Review (23)

1897 annexation treaty: The 1897 annexation treaty was an agreement proposed to annex the Kingdom of Hawaii to the United States, which was signed by representatives of the U.S. government and the Republic of Hawaii. This treaty sparked significant controversy and resistance among native Hawaiians and supporters of Hawaiian sovereignty, highlighting the political tensions surrounding U.S. imperialism during this period.
Anti-annexation: Anti-annexation refers to the opposition against the incorporation of one territory into another sovereign state, particularly concerning Hawaii's resistance to being annexed by the United States. This movement was characterized by a strong sense of nationalism among Hawaiians, who sought to preserve their sovereignty, culture, and governance. The anti-annexation sentiment played a significant role in shaping the political landscape during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Colonialism: Colonialism is the practice of acquiring control over another country or territory, often by establishing settlements and exploiting resources for economic gain. It typically involves the domination of one nation over another, leading to cultural, political, and social changes that can have long-lasting effects on the colonized regions. This dynamic played a significant role in shaping the relationships between foreign powers and indigenous populations, especially during periods of territorial expansion and annexation.
Cultural Erosion: Cultural erosion refers to the gradual loss of cultural identity and practices due to external influences, often stemming from colonization, globalization, or the imposition of dominant cultures. This phenomenon can lead to diminished languages, traditions, and social structures within a community, profoundly affecting its way of life. The impact of cultural erosion can be particularly acute in societies that are forced to confront overwhelming foreign influences that disrupt their traditional values and systems.
Hawaiian Renaissance: The Hawaiian Renaissance refers to a cultural revival that began in the late 20th century, focused on the resurgence of Hawaiian language, arts, and traditions as a response to the effects of colonization and cultural assimilation. This movement has led to a renewed pride in Hawaiian identity, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural practices, language, and historical awareness.
Hui aloha 'aina: Hui aloha 'aina is an organization that emerged in the late 19th century, formed to resist the annexation of Hawaii by the United States. This group was composed mainly of native Hawaiians and their supporters, who aimed to preserve Hawaiian sovereignty and culture. The hui became a significant political force in advocating against foreign domination and defending the rights of the Hawaiian people during a time of intense political upheaval.
Imperialism: Imperialism is the policy or ideology where a nation extends its power and influence over other countries or territories, often through military force, colonization, or economic domination. This practice has significant historical implications, shaping international relations and often leading to resistance and conflict. The concept of imperialism is crucial for understanding how powerful nations sought to expand their territories and control resources, especially in the context of Hawaiian history.
John Tyler Morgan: John Tyler Morgan was a prominent American politician and advocate for the annexation of Hawaii during the late 19th century. He served as a U.S. Senator from Alabama and played a crucial role in promoting the interests of American expansionism, particularly in relation to Hawaii, which he saw as a vital strategic location in the Pacific.
Ku'e Petitions: Ku'e petitions were a series of organized efforts by the Hawaiian people to protest against the annexation of Hawaii by the United States in the late 19th century. These petitions expressed the deep-seated opposition to U.S. rule and highlighted the desire of Native Hawaiians to preserve their sovereignty and cultural identity. They serve as a vital historical record of resistance and are an essential part of understanding the complexities surrounding Hawaii's annexation.
Land dispossession: Land dispossession refers to the process by which indigenous or local populations are forcibly removed from their land, often resulting in loss of access to resources and cultural dislocation. This term is particularly relevant in understanding the historical context of colonization, where land was taken from native people by foreign powers under various pretexts, leading to significant socio-economic and cultural ramifications.
Liliʻuokalani: Liliʻuokalani was the last reigning monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaii, serving from 1891 until 1893. Her reign was marked by efforts to restore Hawaiian sovereignty and resist the growing influence of American interests, which ultimately led to her overthrow. Liliʻuokalani's legacy includes her fight for the rights of Native Hawaiians and her significant contributions to Hawaiian music and culture.
Newlands Resolution: The Newlands Resolution was a congressional measure passed in 1898 that effectively annexed the Republic of Hawaii into the United States. This resolution laid the groundwork for Hawaii's transition from a sovereign nation to a U.S. territory, reflecting the broader imperialistic ambitions of the United States during the late 19th century. The Newlands Resolution not only symbolized the culmination of efforts to annex Hawaii but also illustrated the complex relationship between American expansionism and indigenous sovereignty.
Organic Act: The Organic Act refers to legislation passed by the United States Congress in 1900 that established a territorial government for Hawaii following its annexation. This act provided the framework for governance in Hawaii, including the establishment of a legislature and the appointment of a governor, while also outlining the rights and responsibilities of the residents. It played a crucial role in integrating Hawaii into the United States, shaping its political landscape and addressing issues of citizenship and land ownership.
Overthrow of the Hawaiian kingdom: The overthrow of the Hawaiian kingdom refers to the illegal removal of Queen Liliuokalani from power in 1893, which marked the end of the monarchy in Hawaii. This event was driven by a group of American and European business interests, supported by the U.S. government, leading to significant changes in Hawaii's political landscape and its eventual annexation by the United States. The overthrow has lasting implications for Hawaiian culture, identity, and sovereignty movements today.
Post-colonialism: Post-colonialism refers to the critical study of the cultural, political, and social impacts of colonialism and imperialism on former colonies and their people. It examines the lasting effects of colonial rule and explores how these influences shape identity, power dynamics, and resistance in post-colonial societies.
Pro-annexation: Pro-annexation refers to the support or advocacy for the incorporation of a territory into a sovereign state, particularly in the context of Hawaii's annexation by the United States. This term highlights the political, social, and economic motivations that drove individuals and groups to favor annexation, often underpinned by ideas of American expansionism and manifest destiny. The pro-annexation movement played a crucial role in shaping the fate of Hawaii during the late 19th century as it transitioned from an independent kingdom to a territory of the United States.
Provisional Government: A provisional government is a temporary government set up to manage a state or region during a transitional period, typically until a permanent government can be established. In the context of Hawaii, the provisional government was established following the overthrow of Queen Liliʻuokalani in 1893, marking a pivotal moment in the islands' political history and leading to the eventual annexation by the United States.
Reparations: Reparations refer to compensatory measures taken to address historical injustices and harm done to individuals or groups, often in the context of colonialism, slavery, or systemic oppression. This concept can include financial payments, land restitution, and formal apologies from governments or institutions to rectify past wrongs. In the context of annexation and colonial practices, reparations highlight the ongoing consequences of such actions and the need for acknowledgment and redress.
Republic of Hawaii: The Republic of Hawaii was a short-lived independent republic that existed from 1894 to 1898, following the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii. It was established by a group of American and European business interests, leading to a complex political situation that would ultimately result in Hawaii's annexation by the United States.
Richard Pettigrew: Richard Pettigrew was a prominent American politician and businessman in the late 19th century, known for his role in advocating for the annexation of Hawaii by the United States. As a key figure in the political landscape, he was instrumental in promoting economic interests in Hawaii, especially for American sugar planters, which played a significant part in shaping U.S. foreign policy towards the islands.
Sanford B. Dole: Sanford B. Dole was a prominent figure in Hawaiian history, serving as the president of the Republic of Hawaii after the overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani. He played a crucial role in the annexation of Hawaii by the United States and was a key advocate for the interests of American settlers in Hawaii during a time of significant political change. His leadership and actions significantly influenced the trajectory of Hawaii's relationship with the United States.
Self-determination: Self-determination is the principle that allows a group of people, often defined by ethnicity, culture, or nationality, to determine their own political status and pursue their own economic, social, and cultural development. This concept emphasizes the right of individuals and communities to make decisions about their governance and future without external interference, which is especially relevant in contexts of colonization or annexation.
Statehood: Statehood refers to the status of being recognized as an independent and sovereign state, possessing full rights and responsibilities under international law. In the context of Hawaii, statehood encompasses the transition from being a U.S. territory to becoming the 50th state, which involved complex political, social, and economic changes, influenced by historical events and strategic interests.
1897 annexation treaty
See definition

The 1897 annexation treaty was an agreement proposed to annex the Kingdom of Hawaii to the United States, which was signed by representatives of the U.S. government and the Republic of Hawaii. This treaty sparked significant controversy and resistance among native Hawaiians and supporters of Hawaiian sovereignty, highlighting the political tensions surrounding U.S. imperialism during this period.

Term 1 of 23

Key Terms to Review (23)

1897 annexation treaty
See definition

The 1897 annexation treaty was an agreement proposed to annex the Kingdom of Hawaii to the United States, which was signed by representatives of the U.S. government and the Republic of Hawaii. This treaty sparked significant controversy and resistance among native Hawaiians and supporters of Hawaiian sovereignty, highlighting the political tensions surrounding U.S. imperialism during this period.

Term 1 of 23

1897 annexation treaty
See definition

The 1897 annexation treaty was an agreement proposed to annex the Kingdom of Hawaii to the United States, which was signed by representatives of the U.S. government and the Republic of Hawaii. This treaty sparked significant controversy and resistance among native Hawaiians and supporters of Hawaiian sovereignty, highlighting the political tensions surrounding U.S. imperialism during this period.

Term 1 of 23



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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
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