Kūʻē petitions

Definition

Kūʻē petitions were formal documents created by Hawaiian subjects opposing the overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani in 1893. These petitions expressed the desire of many Native Hawaiians to restore the monarchy and reject the influence of foreign powers, particularly the United States, in Hawaiian affairs. The petitions became a significant symbol of resistance against colonialism and highlighted the importance of sovereignty for the Hawaiian people.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The kūʻē petitions were signed by approximately 38,000 Native Hawaiians and were presented to the U.S. government as a form of protest against the overthrow.
2. These petitions were organized by groups like the Hui Aloha ʻĀina and reflected widespread opposition among Native Hawaiians to annexation and loss of sovereignty.
3. Despite the overwhelming number of signatures, U.S. officials ignored the petitions when moving forward with annexation plans.
4. The kūʻē petitions are considered an important part of Hawaiian history as they represent a collective voice advocating for the rights and sovereignty of Native Hawaiians.
5. The legacy of kūʻē petitions continues to resonate today as many Native Hawaiians advocate for recognition, reparations, and self-determination.

Review Questions

• What motivated Native Hawaiians to create kūʻē petitions, and how did they express their sentiments within these documents?
  • Native Hawaiians were motivated by a strong desire to restore Queen Liliuokalani's monarchy and resist foreign influence following her overthrow in 1893. The kūʻē petitions articulated their opposition to annexation and highlighted their longing for sovereignty. By gathering thousands of signatures, these documents served as a collective expression of resistance against colonialism and an assertion of their rights as Hawaiian subjects.
• Analyze the impact of kūʻē petitions on the political landscape in Hawaii during the period leading up to annexation.
  • The kūʻē petitions had a significant impact on the political landscape in Hawaii as they galvanized public sentiment against annexation and showcased the unity among Native Hawaiians. While U.S. officials disregarded these petitions when pursuing annexation, they illuminated the stark contrast between Native Hawaiian desires for self-determination and foreign ambitions. This tension shaped subsequent political movements advocating for Hawaiian rights and sovereignty that continue today.
• Evaluate how the legacy of kūʻē petitions informs contemporary discussions about Hawaiian sovereignty and rights.
  • The legacy of kūʻē petitions plays a crucial role in contemporary discussions about Hawaiian sovereignty and rights by serving as a historical precedent for indigenous resistance against colonial rule. The petitions remind present-day activists of the importance of collective action in advocating for self-determination. As movements for Hawaiian sovereignty gain momentum, kūʻē petitions are often referenced to highlight historical injustices and call for recognition, reparations, and revitalization of Hawaiian culture and governance.

Related terms

Queen Liliuokalani:

The last reigning monarch of Hawaii, who was overthrown in 1893, leading to significant political and social changes in the islands.

Annexation:

The process by which the United States acquired Hawaii, formally annexing it in 1898 following the overthrow of the monarchy.

Bayonet Constitution:

A constitution imposed on King Kalākaua in 1887 under duress, which significantly limited the powers of the monarchy and increased foreign influence in Hawaii.