Annexation of Hawaii: A Treaty That Reshaped the Pacific

On June 16, 1897, officials from the United States and the Republic of Hawaii signed a treaty formalizing Hawaii's annexation into U.S. territory. Although the treaty paved the way for Hawaii's integration into American governance, the Republic of Hawaii would not be officially dissolved until July 7, 1898, when the U.S. Congress ratified the annexation through the Newlands Resolution.

Background: Hawaii's Political Shift

The signing of the treaty followed years of political upheaval in Hawaii. In 1893, American and pro-U.S. Hawaiian business interests orchestrated a coup that overthrew Queen Liliʻuokalani, establishing the Republic of Hawaii under Sanford B. Dole.

With growing American economic interests-particularly in sugar exports-U.S. officials saw Hawaii as a strategic asset, both for commerce and military defense in the Pacific Ocean. This perspective intensified with the outbreak of the Spanish-American War in 1898, highlighting Hawaii's importance as a naval station for operations in the Philippines and beyond.

The Treaty Signing and Congressional Debates

Signed by Hawaiian representatives and U.S. diplomats on June 16, 1897, the treaty required Senate approval for ratification. However, opposition from Native Hawaiians, anti-imperialists, and some lawmakers stalled its progress.

Instead of proceeding with treaty ratification, Congress sidestepped opposition by passing the Newlands Resolution in 1898, which annexed Hawaii by a simple majority vote rather than the two-thirds Senate approval required for treaties. This method solidified Hawaii's transition into U.S. territory, formally dissolving its republic.

Impact and Legacy

Hawaii's annexation significantly expanded America's influence in the Pacific, setting the stage for its naval dominance and growing involvement in Asian geopolitics. The move also cemented Hawaii's role in U.S. military strategy, ultimately leading to the construction of Pearl Harbor, which became critical in World War II.

Despite economic and strategic benefits, the annexation remained controversial. Many Native Hawaiians viewed it as an illegal takeover, leading to ongoing debates about Hawaiian sovereignty and historical justice.

In 1959, Hawaii officially became the 50th U.S. state, but the annexation remains a deeply contested event in its history, symbolizing the complex intersection of commerce, military interests, and indigenous rights.