The Overthrow and Political Disenfranchisement (1893–1900)

Overview
On January 17, 1893, a group of businessmen and sugar planters, backed by U.S. Marines, illegally overthrew Queen Liliʻuokalani and the Hawaiian Kingdom government. The Provisional Government and later the Republic of Hawaiʻi stripped Hawaiians of political power.

Impact on Hawaiians

  • Loss of sovereignty: A recognized, independent kingdom was illegally overthrown.

  • Disenfranchisement: The 1894 Constitution of the Republic of Hawaiʻi required loyalty oaths and property/wealth requirements that excluded most Native Hawaiians from voting.

  • Annexation without consent: In 1898, Hawaiʻi was annexed to the United States through the Newlands Resolution, bypassing the Kingdom’s sovereignty and the will of its people.

  • 1897 Kūʻē Petitions: Over 21,000 Hawaiians (over 90% of the population) signed petitions against annexation — ignored by U.S. lawmakers.

  • 1900 Organic Act: Established the Territory of Hawaiʻi, cementing U.S. control.

Why It Matters

  • Hawaiians were stripped of their nationhood and political voice.

  • This loss of sovereignty has ripple effects into every aspect of Hawaiian life today.

  • Kamehameha Schools provides education rooted in Hawaiian identity and history, preparing future generations to reclaim dignity and self-determination.

Sources

  • Noenoe Silva, Aloha Betrayed (2004)

  • Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Kūʻē Petitions archives

  • U.S. Congressional Records (1898 Newlands Resolution)