Overthrow of Hawaii
The overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii and its monarchy was conducted by American missionaries in 1893. The act was condemned by many of the New World's great powers, but welcomed by others, including Canada, Gran Colombia, Oregon, and Mexico.
The Conflict
Prelude
During the reign of Queen Lili'uokalani, the Bayonet Constitution was looked at for revision in order to secure more rights for the indigenous Hawaiian people. This angered her ministers, who had greatly benefitted from the provisions of the Constituion. The government of Hawaii had been dominated in the ministry by American missionaries who had long desired to be annexed by the Kingdom of America. They formed the Committee of Safety with plans to commit a coups d'etat against the queen.
Deployment
The American missionaries were able to acquire 162 sailors and marines from the United States wityhout government approval for the operation. The Committee was able to capture the palace, forcing the queen to sign her abdication in favor of a provisional government.
Outcome
Aftermath
The Republic of Hawaii remained in political limbo while the world attempted to find a resolution. No state recognized the provisional government, though America, under King Henry II did not take actions to restore the monarchy. During that time, Princess Kaʻiulani passed away while in exile. As she was the heir to the throne, this caused a lot of resentment among the Hawaiian people.
Historical Significance
Legacy
It wasn't until the reign of Edward III that the monarchy was restored. Hawaii grew further away from the western powers and closer to Japan. During the Great War, Hawaii allowed Japan to establish a port in Pearl Harbor.
Conflict Type
Covert Operation
Battlefield Type
Land
Start Date
1893
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