Republic of Hawaii

Definition

The Republic of Hawaii was a short-lived independent republic that existed from 1894 to 1898, following the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii. It was established by a group of American and European business interests, leading to a complex political situation that would ultimately result in Hawaii's annexation by the United States.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Republic of Hawaii was proclaimed on July 4, 1894, after the overthrow of Queen Liliʻuokalani, making it a pivotal moment in Hawaiian history.
2. The first and only president of the Republic was Sanford B. Dole, who played a key role in both the overthrow and the subsequent establishment of the republic.
3. Despite being recognized by only a few nations and lacking widespread international support, the Republic of Hawaii operated its own government and military.
4. In 1898, Congress passed the Newlands Resolution, which led to Hawaii's annexation by the United States and effectively ended the Republic of Hawaii.
5. The establishment of the Republic was driven by economic interests, particularly from sugar planters who sought to secure favorable trade conditions with the United States.

Review Questions

• How did the overthrow of Queen Liliʻuokalani lead to the establishment of the Republic of Hawaii?
  • The overthrow of Queen Liliʻuokalani in 1893 was fueled by growing tensions between native Hawaiians and American business interests. A group of American and European sugar planters, backed by U.S. military support, removed the queen from power. This coup created a power vacuum that allowed these interests to establish the Republic of Hawaii in 1894, marking a significant shift in Hawaiian governance and society.
• What were the key features of governance under the Republic of Hawaii, and how did they differ from the previous monarchy?
  • Under the Republic of Hawaii, governance shifted from a monarchy to a republican form, led by President Sanford B. Dole. The new government had a constitution that reflected American democratic principles but was primarily influenced by business interests. Unlike the previous monarchy, which held significant power over Hawaiian affairs, the republic was heavily dominated by American interests and operated with reduced native Hawaiian influence.
• Evaluate the implications of Hawaii's annexation by the United States in 1898 on both Hawaii and U.S. foreign policy.
  • Hawaii's annexation in 1898 marked a critical juncture in U.S. foreign policy as it expanded American territorial reach across the Pacific. This event not only ended the brief existence of the Republic but also brought about significant changes for native Hawaiians, including loss of sovereignty and cultural erosion. For the U.S., annexing Hawaii provided strategic military advantages and access to Asian markets, reflecting its growing imperial ambitions during this era.

Related terms

Overthrow: The forcible removal of Queen Liliʻuokalani in 1893, which paved the way for the establishment of the Republic of Hawaii.

Annexation:

The process by which the Republic of Hawaii was incorporated into the United States in 1898, leading to Hawaii's status as a U.S. territory.

Bayonet Constitution:

A constitution imposed on King Kalākaua in 1887 that significantly reduced the monarchy's power and increased the influence of American and European businessmen.