The Annexation of the Hawaiian Islands by the United States in 1898 was necessary for the protection of the Hawaiian Islands, the Hawaiian people, and from subversive global powers. While the annexation of the Hawaiian Islands by the United States of America in 1898 was a necessary action to take at the time, as it stands today, the Hawaiian Islands, and its people should be allowed to govern themselves, in their own ways, and own traditions. This analysis will cover a wide swath of primary and secondary sources that stretch over the course of 150 years that are located online, and from traditional literary sources. The case for and against the annexation of the Hawaiian Islands was made for decades before it was finally annexed in 1898. There were a plethora of sound, reasonable cases made on both sides. But, on June 15th 1898, President William McKinley signed a congregational order to annex the Islands. One of the most convincing arguments for annexation was the physical protection of the United States, and itâÂÂs West coast from foreign adversaries. The Islands are uniquely situated in a formidable strategic military position, and an advantageous location to facilitate trade, and commerce. There is also a large body of work, which vehemently opposes annexation. In fact, opposed any foreign involvement in the Hawaiian Islands at all. Throughout my research there has been a consistent theme that has emerged that positions the Islands, and its people as the unwitting victim of exploitation by the West. Undoubtedly the Islands and their people were exploited during the industrial, and economic boom during the 19th century. However, contrary to the common zeitgeist, the Hawaiian people were exploited by their own leaders as well as outside influences. In a sea of literature that presupposes the inherent good of all things Hawaii, and the institutional evil of all things Western, I will argue the counter. I will make the case for, and defend the choice for the annexation of the Hawaiian Islands.
