U.S. ANNXES THE HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

Opening Statement

We're going to talk about the annexation of Hawaii to the United States. They became an important economic asset to the U.S. in the years to come.

Definition

Self-explanatory, the United States annexes Hawaii as a territory, before it became the fiftieth state.

THE DETAILS
In 1893, President Benjamin Harrison attempted to annex Hawaii, but was declined due to revolts led by Queen Lili'uokalani in 1895, petition in 1897 and eventual unpopular vote.

THE DETAILS
However during the Spanish-American War, we were in need of a mid-Pacific fueling location, and Hawaii was the best choice.

THE DETAILS
On July 21, 1898 the resolution had passed and the Hawaiian Islands were officially annexed by the U.S. - as a territory.

THE DETAILS
The War was not the only reason for annexation. Europe was a strong imperialistic power at the time, and America wanted to make sure Hawaii was not their next stop.

SO WHY WAS IT IMPORTANT?

• This gave us Hawaii for a strong Naval base, especially during the war.
• Ensured us as preferred market access and not France or the U.K.

EXTRA FACT
Hawaii eventually became the fiftieth state on August 21, 1959.

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CITATION

• "Annexation of Hawaii." Annexation of Hawaii. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Dec. 2015.