American Overseas Imperialism: The Expansion into Hawaii

Overview

The late 19th century saw the emergence of American overseas imperialism, marked by its expansion into territories like China, Japan, and Samoa. Hawaii stands out as a unique case where traditional restraints on territorial acquisition were temporarily set aside. This period began with increased commercial interests in East Asia during the 1850s and 1860s, followed by decades of growing American influence over Hawaii that culminated in its annexation in 1898.

Context

The late 19th century was a time of significant imperialist activity among European powers and the United States. The Industrial Revolution had fueled economic growth and technological advancements, leading to increased competition for markets and resources abroad. American expansionism was driven by the desire for new commercial opportunities and strategic military bases, particularly in East Asia where China and Japan were opening up to foreign trade after centuries of isolation.

Timeline

• 1850s and 1860s: Increased economic activity with China and Japan as they opened their markets.
• 1878: The United States obtained a naval base in Samoa, setting the stage for further overseas expansion.
• Late 1840s: American protection was extended over Hawaii, establishing a strong presence there.
• Mid-1850s to late 1860s: Significant numbers of American traders and missionaries settled in Hawaii, leading to increasing economic ties and cultural influence.
• Early 1890s: Efforts began to engineer the annexation of Hawaii to the United States.
• January 17, 1893: A revolution broke out in Hawaii, led by a coalition of American businessmen seeking independence from Hawaiian rule.
• July 1894: The Hawaiian Republic was established as an independent state but sought recognition and protection from the United States.
• July 7, 1898: The U.S. annexed Hawaii through the Newlands Resolution.

Key Terms and Concepts

• Industrial Revolution: A period in history characterized by significant changes in agriculture, manufacturing, mining, transportation, and technology that began in Britain around 1760 and spread to other countries.
• Imperialism: The policy of extending a country’s power and influence through diplomacy or military force; the establishment, maintenance, acquisition, and expansion of empires.
• Annexation: The act of acquiring territory by joining it to one’s own state or territory under legal control.
• Naval Base: A facility used for the long-term mooring of naval ships, providing operational support services such as fueling, repair work, supplies, and personnel accommodation.
• Revolution: A dramatic and wide-ranging change in conditions, attitudes, or institutions brought about by a sudden and decisive event; a political upheaval aimed at overthrowing an established regime.
• Protectionism: Economic policies designed to limit international trade through tariffs, quotas, and other measures intended to protect domestic industries from foreign competition.

Key Figures and Groups

• William McKinley: The 25th President of the United States (1897–1901) who signed the Newlands Resolution that annexed Hawaii.
• Lorrin A. Thurston: An American businessman, politician, and journalist instrumental in orchestrating the overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani and the establishment of the Hawaiian Republic.
• Queen Liliuokalani: The last reigning monarch of Hawaii (1891–1893) who opposed the annexation to the United States and was overthrown by American settlers.

Mechanisms and Processes

-> Increased commercial interest in China and Japan led to increased influence -> Establishment of a naval base in Samoa provided strategic advantages -> Strong economic ties with Hawaii facilitated cultural and political influence -> Efforts began to engineer Hawaiian annexation -> Revolution in Hawaii weakened the monarchy -> United States recognized and protected the Hawaiian Republic -> Annexation occurred through legislative action.

Deep Background

The expansion into Hawaii was part of broader trends that characterized American foreign policy at the turn of the 20th century. The Industrial Revolution had spurred economic growth, leading to a search for new markets and raw materials abroad. This coincided with technological advancements in naval power and communication which enabled more extensive overseas military presence.

The opening up of China and Japan was significant as these nations represented vast potential markets. Similarly, Samoa’s strategic location provided an important naval base that could secure American interests in the Pacific Ocean. The settlement of Hawaii by American traders and missionaries created deep economic ties and cultural influence, making it a logical target for annexation to safeguard American commercial interests.

The revolution in Hawaii was driven by both internal dissatisfaction with the monarchy and external pressures from American settlers seeking greater control over Hawaiian resources. The establishment of the Hawaiian Republic allowed these groups to seek recognition and protection from the United States, ultimately leading to its annexation through political maneuvering at home.

Explanation and Importance

American expansion into Hawaii represented a significant shift in foreign policy towards overseas imperialism. This change was driven by economic interests, strategic military needs, and cultural influence facilitated by earlier settlement efforts. The annexation of Hawaii marked an important moment in American history as it set aside traditional restraints on territorial acquisition, signaling the beginning of a more aggressive imperialist stance.

Comparative Insight

Similar trends can be observed in other countries during this period. For instance, Britain’s expansion into Africa and Asia was driven by similar economic interests and technological advancements. The parallel between Hawaii’s annexation and British actions in these regions highlights the global nature of late 19th-century imperialism.

Extended Analysis

• Economic Motivations: The primary driver behind American interest in Hawaii was the need for new markets, particularly for sugar cane plantations that dominated the island’s economy.
• Strategic Military Value: Pearl Harbor’s strategic location made it an ideal naval base, crucial for protecting American interests in the Pacific.
• Cultural Influence and Political Change: The presence of American missionaries and settlers had a profound impact on Hawaiian society, leading to political changes that favored annexation.
• Domestic Politics and International Relations: Domestic pressures from American settlers in Hawaii influenced U.S. foreign policy, eventually leading to legislative action for annexation.

Quiz

Open Thinking Questions

• How might the annexation of Hawaii have affected the indigenous Hawaiian population?
• What were the economic implications for American businesses in Hawaii post-annexation?
• In what ways did the annexation of Hawaii influence U.S. foreign policy towards other Pacific territories?

Conclusion

The expansion into Hawaii marked a pivotal moment in American history, reflecting broader trends towards overseas imperialism driven by economic and strategic interests. This period set the stage for future territorial acquisitions and shaped America’s role as an imperial power in the 20th century.