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Please note where Hawaii is located and the distances in miles to other locations including California which is in the Continental United States. Hawaii was annexed (taken over) by the United States against the will of the Hawaiians and the Hawaiian royalty King Kalakaua and later Queen Liliuokalani. Why would the United States want, using expansionist policies, to take control of these islands located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean? (U10.3 and Unit 8-10 EOC Study Notes) TEKS - 4(B) (1 point) Responses The United States congress did not see any potential in having control of the islands since they were located so far from the mainland states. The United States congress did not see any potential in having control of the islands since they were located so far from the mainland states. Many people felt the Hawaiians needed to receive protection from a larger country like the United States. They were in favor of taking the islands over in order to keep the Hawaiians safe and to preserve the rich Hawaiian culture. Many people felt the Hawaiians needed to receive protection from a larger country like the United States. They were in favor of taking the islands over in order to keep the Hawaiians safe and to preserve the rich Hawaiian culture. The islands had rich land perfect for growing pineapples and sugar cane. Their Pacific Ocean location also offered a place to refuel, resupply ships, and was a great place for the military to build bases in case of conflict with countries in Asia. The islands had rich land perfect for growing pineapples and sugar cane. Their Pacific Ocean location also offered a place to refuel, resupply ships, and was a great place for the military to build bases in case of conflict with countries in Asia. People thought the islands were beautiful, and they wanted control of them to keep tourism there cheap. People thought the islands were beautiful, and they wanted control of them to keep tourism there cheap. Skip to navigation

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Hawaii is located in the central Pacific Ocean, approximately 2,400 miles southwest of California. It is an archipelago consisting of 137 islands, with eight main islands: Hawai'i (the Big Island), Maui, O'ahu, Kaua'i, Moloka'i, Lāna'i, Ni'ihau, and Kaho'olawe.

Here are some approximate distances from Hawaii to other locations:

  • Hawaii to California (Los Angeles): 2,400 miles
  • Hawaii to Japan (Tokyo): About 3,850 miles
  • Hawaii to Australia (Sydney): About 5,100 miles
  • Hawaii to New York City: Approximately 5,100 miles
  • Hawaii to Canada (Vancouver): About 2,200 miles

Reasons for U.S. Annexation of Hawaii:

  1. Strategic Location: Hawaii is situated in a central location in the Pacific, making it a crucial refueling and supply station for ships and military bases. This geographic positioning was seen as vital for expanding U.S. military presence and influence in the Asia-Pacific region, especially during a time of growing tensions with countries like Japan and China.

  2. Economic Interests: The islands had fertile land suitable for growing cash crops such as sugar cane and pineapples. American businesses had established plantations in Hawaii, and the annexation was partly aimed at protecting these economic interests, ensuring favorable terms for trade.

  3. Protection of the Islands: Some supporters of annexation believed that the Hawaiian people needed protection from potential foreign invasions or domination. They argued that U.S. control would help safeguard Hawaiian culture and sovereignty.

  4. Expansionist Ideology: The late 19th century was characterized by American expansionism and imperialism. Many Americans believed in the idea of manifest destiny—the notion that the U.S. was destined to expand across the continent and beyond, which created a mindset inclined towards acquiring territories like Hawaii.

  5. Tourism and Cultural Appeal: Hawaii’s natural beauty was attractive to many Americans. Control over the islands allowed the U.S. to promote tourism, which became an important economic sector.

The annexation of Hawaii was not without controversy, as it was done against the wishes of the native Hawaiian population and monarchy, particularly Queen Liliuokalani, leading to long-lasting implications for the islands and their people.