Question

Which best describes the difference of opinion over the annexation of Hawaii?

Some leaders felt annexation would help the US control the Philippines, while others argued it was unnecessary.
Some leaders felt annexation would help Hawaii’s queen, while others argued it would weaken her position.
Some leaders felt annexation would benefit both countries, while others argued it was illegal.
Some leaders felt annexation was expensive but necessary, while others argued that Hawaii had few Americans.

Answer 1

Some leaders felt annexation would help the US control the Philippines, while others argued it was unnecessary.

Pro-annexation voices stressed Hawaii’s strategic value as a naval/coaling base and staging point for U.S. power in the Pacific (especially after the Philippines acquisition). Opponents said such expansion was unnecessary, imperialistic, and inconsistent with American principles.