Provisional Government

Definition

A provisional government is a temporary government set up to manage a state or region during a transitional period, typically until a permanent government can be established. In the context of Hawaii, the provisional government was established following the overthrow of Queen Liliʻuokalani in 1893, marking a pivotal moment in the islands' political history and leading to the eventual annexation by the United States.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The provisional government was established by a group of American and European businessmen with the support of the U.S. military shortly after the overthrow of Queen Liliʻuokalani.
2. This government claimed to be a temporary solution until a new constitution could be established and a formal election held.
3. The provisional government declared itself a republic in 1894, seeking to gain legitimacy and international recognition.
4. The U.S. played a significant role in supporting the provisional government, which eventually led to the annexation of Hawaii in 1898.
5. Hawaii's annexation was controversial and faced opposition from many native Hawaiians who viewed it as an illegal occupation.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of the provisional government reflect the political tensions in Hawaii during the late 19th century?
  • The establishment of the provisional government was a direct response to the political tensions between native Hawaiians and foreign interests, particularly American businessmen who sought more control over Hawaii's resources and governance. The overthrow of Queen Liliʻuokalani, who represented native Hawaiian sovereignty, set off a chain of events that led to the creation of this temporary government. This shift showcased the struggle for power and influence in Hawaii, as well as the growing role of external forces in its politics.
• Evaluate the impact that the provisional government had on native Hawaiian sovereignty and identity.
  • The provisional government's establishment significantly undermined native Hawaiian sovereignty and identity by displacing the monarchy and disregarding the wishes of many Hawaiians who supported their queen. The government's actions paved the way for further U.S. intervention and ultimately annexation, which diminished native control over their lands and cultural practices. This period marked a turning point where native Hawaiians began to experience increased marginalization in their own homeland.
• Assess how the formation of the provisional government led to long-term consequences for Hawaii’s political landscape and its people.
  • The formation of the provisional government created long-term consequences that reshaped Hawaii’s political landscape and impacted its people for generations. By transitioning from a monarchy to a republic under foreign influence, it established a precedent for U.S. control that would culminate in formal annexation. This led to systemic changes in governance that marginalized native voices and prioritized American interests, resulting in ongoing debates about sovereignty, cultural preservation, and identity that continue to resonate within Hawaiian society today.

Related terms

Overthrow: The act of removing a leader or government from power, often through force or illegal means, as occurred with Queen Liliʻuokalani.

Annexation:

The process by which a territory becomes part of another political entity, particularly when the United States formally incorporated Hawaii in 1898.

Republic of Hawaii:

The government formed after the establishment of the provisional government, which sought recognition and legitimacy before eventual annexation by the United States.