Question

question 5 of 10

which group was most supportive of the annexation of hawaii by the united states?

a. american and asian settlers
b. native hawaiians
c. new england missionaries
d. american sugar planters

Explanation:

Analyze the economic motivations in Hawaii

The push for the annexation of Hawaii was heavily driven by economic interests, specifically the sugar trade. American businessmen established highly profitable sugar plantations on the islands during the nineteenth century.

Evaluate the impact of US tariff policies

The McKinley Tariff of 1890 eliminated the duty-free status of Hawaiian sugar entering the United States, putting Hawaiian planters at a severe disadvantage compared to domestic producers. Annexation would classify Hawaii as a US territory, thereby eliminating these costly import tariffs.

Identify the key group behind the overthrow

To protect their financial interests, American sugar planters led by figures like Sanford B. Dole conspired with the US minister to Hawaii to overthrow Queen Liliʻuokalani in 1893, actively lobbying for annexation by the United States.

Assess the other options

• A. American and Asian settlers: Asian immigrant laborers (primarily Japanese and Chinese) did not support annexation, as it threatened their legal status and labor rights.
• B. Native Hawaiians: The vast majority of Native Hawaiians strongly opposed annexation, signing petitions to protest the loss of their sovereignty.
• C. New England missionaries: While early missionaries laid the groundwork for American influence, it was their descendants who transitioned into the planter class that actively drove the political annexation.

Formulate the final conclusion

The group most supportive of and actively driving the annexation of Hawaii was the American sugar planters, making option D the correct choice.

Answer:

• (A) American and Asian settlers
• (B) Native Hawaiians
• (C) New England missionaries
• (D) American sugar planters (Correct answer)