Robert Wilcox

Definition

Robert Wilcox was a prominent Hawaiian political figure and leader of the anti-monarchy movement during the late 19th century, particularly known for his involvement in the efforts to overthrow Queen Liliuokalani in 1893. His actions reflected a growing discontent among certain groups in Hawaii against the ruling monarchy, fueled by issues of economic control, land ownership, and the influence of foreign interests.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wilcox led the unsuccessful coup attempt against Queen Liliuokalani in January 1893, which was part of a larger effort by American and European interests to establish control over Hawaii.
2. Despite his efforts, Wilcox's actions ultimately contributed to the rise of a provisional government that favored annexation to the United States.
3. He was a member of the House of Representatives of the Republic of Hawaii after the monarchy was overthrown.
4. Robert Wilcox's political career was marked by his advocacy for native Hawaiians and their rights during a time when foreign interests were dominating Hawaiian politics.
5. Wilcox's legacy is complex; while he is seen as a nationalist who fought for Hawaiian sovereignty, his actions also inadvertently facilitated U.S. annexation.

Review Questions

• How did Robert Wilcox's actions during the overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani reflect broader social and political tensions in Hawaii at that time?
  • Robert Wilcox's leadership in the coup against Queen Liliuokalani highlights significant tensions between native Hawaiians and foreign interests in Hawaii. His actions were driven by a desire to reclaim power from foreign entities that had increasingly influenced Hawaiian politics, particularly following the imposition of the Bayonet Constitution. This conflict underscored a growing sentiment among certain groups in Hawaii that sought to challenge the monarchy's authority and address grievances related to land and economic control.
• Evaluate the role of Robert Wilcox in the formation of a provisional government after the overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani and its implications for Hawaiian sovereignty.
  • After Queen Liliuokalani was overthrown, Robert Wilcox played an important role in supporting the provisional government that emerged. While he sought to protect Hawaiian interests, his support for this new government ultimately contributed to the erosion of sovereignty for native Hawaiians. The provisional government's alignment with American business interests led to further annexation efforts, which diminished Hawaii's independence and signaled a shift toward greater U.S. control over the islands.
• Assess how Robert Wilcox's legacy has been interpreted in contemporary discussions about Hawaiian sovereignty and identity.
  • Robert Wilcox's legacy is often viewed through contrasting lenses in contemporary discussions about Hawaiian sovereignty. On one hand, he is celebrated as a nationalist who fought for Hawaiian rights and autonomy; on the other hand, his involvement in the overthrow facilitated U.S. annexation, which many see as detrimental to native sovereignty. This duality reflects ongoing debates within Hawaii about identity, cultural preservation, and how historical figures are remembered as part of larger narratives concerning colonialism and resistance.

Related terms

Bayonet Constitution:

A constitution imposed on King Kalakaua in 1887 that significantly reduced the power of the monarchy and increased the influence of American and foreign interests in Hawaiian politics.

Committee of Safety:

A group formed by American businessmen and their allies that orchestrated the overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani, leading to the establishment of a provisional government.

Annexation:

The formal incorporation of Hawaii into the United States, which occurred in 1898 after the overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani and the establishment of a provisional government.