The annexation of Hawaii by the United States in 1898 was a significant event in American history, marking the expansion of U.S. territory in the Pacific. Here are the key points about what happened:
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Background: In the late 19th century, Hawaii was a sovereign kingdom. It had established strong economic ties with the United States, especially in the sugar industry. American planters and businessmen had significant influence in Hawaii, which led to increased interest in annexation.
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Overthrow of the Monarchy: In 1893, a group of American and European business interests, supported by U.S. government officials, overthrew Queen Liliʻuokalani, the last reigning monarch of Hawaii. This coup led to the establishment of a provisional government, seeking to make Hawaii a U.S. territory.
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Cleveland’s Response: President Grover Cleveland opposed the annexation and sought to restore the queen to her throne, but his efforts were thwarted by the provisional government. The situation remained unresolved for several years.
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Annexation and the Spanish-American War: The push for annexation gained momentum during the Spanish-American War in 1898, as Hawaii was seen as a strategic location for a naval base in the Pacific. This urgency helped sway public and political opinion in favor of annexation.
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Newlands Resolution: On July 7, 1898, the U.S. Congress passed the Newlands Resolution, which officially annexed Hawaii to the United States. The resolution did not require the approval of the Hawaiian people, and it took effect on August 12, 1898.
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Territorial Status and Statehood: Hawaii was later organized as a U.S. Territory in 1900 and eventually became the 50th state of the United States on August 21, 1959.
The annexation of Hawaii remains a topic of discussion and controversy, particularly regarding the impact on the indigenous Hawaiian population and the sovereignty of the islands.
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