U.S. Annexation of Hawaii

Definition

The U.S. annexation of Hawaii refers to the formal incorporation of the Hawaiian Islands into the United States, which was completed in 1898 through a congressional resolution known as the Newlands Resolution. This event marked a significant shift in Hawaiian sovereignty, transitioning from an independent kingdom to a U.S. territory, impacting various aspects of Hawaiian society, economy, and land rights, particularly in relation to land ownership and the establishment of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The U.S. annexation of Hawaii was driven by strategic interests, particularly its location as a mid-Pacific refueling station for naval and commercial vessels.
2. The overthrow of Queen Liliʻuokalani was largely orchestrated by American sugar planters and supported by the U.S. government, leading to significant tensions between native Hawaiians and American settlers.
3. After annexation, many Native Hawaiians faced challenges regarding land ownership as large portions of land were transferred to American interests, impacting their traditional practices and livelihoods.
4. The Hawaiian Homes Commission Act was created as a response to the loss of land and aimed to promote the welfare of Native Hawaiians by providing them with opportunities for land ownership and agricultural development.
5. The annexation process faced considerable opposition from Native Hawaiians, with petitions against it being sent to the U.S. Congress, reflecting a deep sense of loss and resistance among the native population.

Review Questions

• How did the U.S. annexation of Hawaii impact the political landscape of the islands?
  • The U.S. annexation of Hawaii drastically changed the political landscape by eliminating the Hawaiian monarchy and establishing a U.S. territory. The sovereignty that once belonged to the Hawaiian Kingdom was replaced by American governance, which marginalized native voices in political matters. This shift laid the groundwork for further American policies that would affect land rights and cultural practices within Hawaii.
• Discuss the implications of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act in relation to the annexation of Hawaii.
  • The Hawaiian Homes Commission Act had significant implications following Hawaii's annexation as it was designed to address land access issues for Native Hawaiians who suffered losses due to American interests taking control of land. By providing homesteads on public lands specifically for Native Hawaiians, it attempted to restore some degree of autonomy and improve living conditions. However, it also highlighted ongoing struggles over land rights stemming from annexation, reflecting the complex legacy of this historical event.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of U.S. annexation on Native Hawaiian identity and community.
  • The long-term effects of U.S. annexation on Native Hawaiian identity and community are profound and multifaceted. The loss of sovereignty led to cultural dislocation and challenges in maintaining traditional practices and beliefs. As land ownership shifted largely away from Native Hawaiians, communities became more fragmented, impacting social structures and economic stability. However, this struggle also ignited a resurgence of cultural pride and activism among Native Hawaiians, fostering movements for sovereignty and recognition that continue to shape their identity today.

Related terms

Overthrow of the Hawaiian Monarchy: The overthrow occurred in 1893 when a group of American and European business interests deposed Queen Liliʻuokalani, leading to the establishment of a provisional government.

Hawaiian Homes Commission Act:

Passed in 1921, this act aimed to provide homesteads for Native Hawaiians on public lands, addressing issues related to land access after annexation.

Newlands Resolution:

The legislative act that formally annexed Hawaii, signed into law on July 7, 1898, allowing for Hawaii to become a U.S. territory.