The overthrow of the monarchy

Definition

The overthrow of the monarchy refers to the 1893 coup d'état that resulted in the removal of Queen Lili'uokalani from power in Hawai'i. This event marked a significant turning point in Hawaiian history, leading to the eventual annexation of the islands by the United States and drastically altering the political, social, and cultural landscape of Hawai'i. The consequences of this overthrow resonate deeply within Hawaiian oral traditions, reflecting themes of resistance, identity, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Queen Lili'uokalani was the last reigning monarch of Hawai'i and sought to restore power to the monarchy through a new constitution prior to her overthrow.
2. The overthrow was led by a group of American and European businessmen, supported by U.S. military forces stationed in Honolulu.
3. After her removal, Queen Lili'uokalani composed 'Aloha 'Oe,' which became an iconic symbol of her legacy and resistance against colonization.
4. The overthrow set off a series of events that led to the annexation of Hawai'i in 1898 and its eventual statehood in 1959.
5. The story of the overthrow is preserved in various forms of Hawaiian oral tradition, including mele and mo'olelo, emphasizing themes of loss, resilience, and cultural identity.

Review Questions

• How did the overthrow of the monarchy influence Hawaiian oral traditions such as mele and mo'olelo?
  • The overthrow of the monarchy significantly influenced Hawaiian oral traditions as they became vehicles for expressing resistance and preserving cultural identity. Mele often recounts historical events, including the challenges faced by Queen Lili'uokalani and her efforts to restore power to the monarchy. Mo'olelo, or stories, serve as reminders of the past injustices experienced by Hawaiians and help maintain a sense of unity and resilience within the community.
• Analyze the role that Queen Lili'uokalani played in both her own overthrow and in shaping subsequent narratives within Hawaiian oral traditions.
  • Queen Lili'uokalani played a pivotal role during her reign as she attempted to reclaim sovereignty through constitutional means. Her efforts were met with resistance from foreign interests that culminated in her overthrow. Following this event, her legacy was cemented within Hawaiian oral traditions; she became a symbol of resistance against colonization. The narratives that surround her life and actions continue to be expressed through mele and mo'olelo, highlighting her importance in Hawaiian history.
• Evaluate how the overthrow of the monarchy affects contemporary discussions about sovereignty and identity within Hawaiian communities.
  • The overthrow of the monarchy remains a critical reference point in contemporary discussions surrounding sovereignty and identity for many Hawaiians today. This historical event is not only viewed as an infringement on their rights but also serves as a rallying cry for those advocating for native rights and self-determination. By reflecting on this past through oral traditions like mele and mo'olelo, modern movements for sovereignty find strength and validation in their cultural heritage while navigating contemporary issues that relate back to their history.

Related terms

Hawaiian Kingdom: The sovereign nation established in 1810, recognized internationally until its overthrow in 1893, characterized by a unique system of governance and a rich cultural heritage.

Annexation:

The formal incorporation of Hawai'i into the United States in 1898, following the overthrow of the monarchy, which significantly impacted the political status of the islands.

Mele: Traditional Hawaiian chants or songs that often convey historical narratives, cultural values, and collective memory, serving as a means to express resistance and identity.