John Tyler Morgan

Definition

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.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. John Tyler Morgan was a key supporter of the Newlands Resolution, which facilitated the annexation of Hawaii in 1898.
2. Morgan believed that Hawaii's strategic location would enhance American military and commercial interests in the Pacific region.
3. He often argued that annexing Hawaii would provide a critical supply station for U.S. naval operations and enhance trade routes with Asia.
4. Morgan's push for annexation was part of a larger trend of American imperialism during this period, reflecting a desire to expand U.S. influence beyond its continental borders.
5. Despite his efforts, the annexation faced significant opposition from Native Hawaiians and others who were concerned about the loss of sovereignty and cultural identity.

Review Questions

• How did John Tyler Morgan influence the push for Hawaiian annexation in terms of political strategy and public opinion?
  • John Tyler Morgan used his position as a U.S. Senator to advocate vigorously for the annexation of Hawaii. He employed political strategies that included rallying support among fellow lawmakers by emphasizing Hawaii's strategic importance for military and commercial purposes. By framing annexation as essential for national security and economic growth, he influenced public opinion and laid the groundwork for legislative support for the Newlands Resolution.
• Evaluate the impact of John Tyler Morgan's actions on both American foreign policy and Hawaiian sovereignty during the late 19th century.
  • John Tyler Morgan's advocacy for Hawaiian annexation significantly shaped American foreign policy by promoting expansionist ideals that led to increased U.S. involvement in the Pacific. His actions contributed to the eventual annexation of Hawaii, disregarding the perspectives and sovereignty of Native Hawaiians who opposed it. This shift in policy exemplified how individual politicians could sway national direction, often at the expense of local populations.
• Assess how John Tyler Morgan's promotion of Hawaiian annexation reflects broader themes of imperialism and expansionism in American history during this era.
  • John Tyler Morgan's promotion of Hawaiian annexation is emblematic of the broader themes of imperialism and expansionism that characterized American history in the late 19th century. His belief in manifest destiny and the necessity of securing strategic territories highlighted the mindset of many Americans who viewed expansion as a path to greatness. This mindset not only justified actions taken against foreign lands but also led to complex consequences regarding indigenous rights and international relations, illustrating the tension between expansionist ambitions and respect for sovereignty.

Related terms

Annexation:

The formal act of acquiring territory by a state or government, often through legislative approval or military conquest.

Hawaii: A group of islands in the central Pacific Ocean that became a U.S. territory in 1898, following significant political and economic influences from American interests.

Expansionism: A policy aimed at extending a nation's territory or influence, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as the United States sought to grow its global presence.