The overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom occurred on January 17, 1893, when a group of American and European business interests, backed by the U.S. government, staged a coup against Queen Liliʻuokalani. The queen had been attempting to implement a new constitution that would restore power to Native Hawaiians and reduce the influence of foreign interests, particularly those involved in the sugar and pineapple industries. Fearing economic and political losses, a small group of powerful businessmen and sugar planters, known as the Committee of Safety, sought U.S. military support to overthrow the monarchy.
With the backing of U.S. Minister John L. Stevens and the presence of U.S. Marines from the USS Boston, the coup leaders took control of government buildings in Honolulu and forced Queen Liliʻuokalani to step down under protest. The new provisional government, led by Sanford B. Dole, sought immediate annexation to the United States. However, this move faced opposition both in Hawaii and in the U.S., particularly from President Grover Cleveland, who considered the overthrow illegal and called for the queen’s reinstatement. Despite his efforts, the U.S. government ultimately did not restore the monarchy.
In 1898, under President William McKinley, Hawaii was officially annexed through the Newlands Resolution, making it a U.S. territory. The overthrow had lasting consequences for Native Hawaiians, leading to the erosion of their sovereignty, culture, and land rights. In 1993, on the 100th anniversary of the coup, the U.S. government issued the Apology Resolution, acknowledging the illegality of the overthrow and expressing regret, though it did not restore sovereignty to Native Hawaiians.
The Hawaiian people have a deep respect for the land, viewing it as an integral part of their culture and heritage. In contrast, many wealthy mainlanders prioritize financial gain over environmental and cultural preservation. The rich traditions of the Hawaiian people are woven into the very fabric of the islands. However, many young Hawaiians are leaving due to a lack of job opportunities and the rising cost of living, driven in part by government policies that favor outside interests. If Native Hawaiians were given greater control over their homeland, the true beauty and spirit of Hawaii could flourish.