What Was Hawaii Before It Was a State? Check Its History & Timeline!

Most of us know Hawaii as a tropical paradise and the 50th member of the USA. But have you ever wondered what Hawaii was originally called, and how it actually became part of the United States? Through this article, learn about the journey from a cluster of independent islands to an American state.  

What was the Independent Kingdom of Hawaii?

Long before anyone asked, "Is Hawaii America?", it was a fully recognised and sovereign nation. 

• It was originally known simply as Hawaiʻi, and the islands were unified in 1810 by King Kamehameha I. 

• It is during 1810–1893 that the Kingdom of Hawaii was not just a remote outpost. Instead, it was a sophisticated monarchy with its own constitution. It had diplomatic ties with the UK and Europe. 

• However, during the 19th century, American "sugar barons" began buying up land, gaining massive economic influence that eventually threatened the throne.

Check Out: Map of Hawaii

The Overthrow and the Republic (1893–1898)

In 1893, the story took a dark turn. A group of American and European businessmen, backed by U.S. Marines, forced the last monarch, Queen Liliʻuokalani, from her throne. They established the Republic of Hawaii, led by Sanford Dole.

Did native Hawaiians want to be a US territory? Generally, no. Many remained loyal to the Queen and protested the loss of their independence. Despite this, the US annexed the islands in 1898 during the Spanish-American War, primarily because they needed a strategic military base in the Pacific.

How It Became a Territory (1900–1959)?

Do you know that for over 50 years, Hawaii remained a territory of the United States? 

During this time, the Hawaii flag uniquely features the British Union Jack that continued to fly, and represents the islands' mixed history.

The question of how Hawaii became a state was debated for decades. Many in Washington were hesitant because of the islands' diverse, non-white population. 

However, after World War II, Hawaii’s strategic importance during the Cold War changed the conversation.

When did Hawaii become the 50th state?

It officially joined the union on August 21, 1959. While a vote showed 17 to 1 in favour of statehood, it’s important to note that many Native Hawaiians felt they were never given a choice between statehood and returning to an independent kingdom.

Does the Hawaiian royal family still exist?

Technically, the monarchy ended in 1893, but the descendants of the high chiefs still live in Hawaii today. In 1993, the US government even issued a formal apology for the illegal overthrow, acknowledging that the Native people never formally gave up their sovereignty.

Check Out: Who is Uncle Sam? Check Its Symbolism 

Today, Hawaii is a vibrant part of the US, but its history as a proud, independent kingdom remains a core part of its identity.