The Significance of Annexing Hawaii to the U.S.

Why was annexing Hawaii important to the U.S.?

A. Hawaii had few trade options.

B. Hawaii was home to many Americans.

C. Hawaii was under the influence of the British.

D. Hawaii was a strategic location for a naval base.

Answer:

The answer is D.

Its strategic location in the Pacific made Hawaii a great place to build a naval base for the US Navy. The US was in the transition of being a major world power with global interests, a reason that supported the construction and operation of a large navy.

Final Answer:

The annexation of Hawaii was significant for the U.S. mainly due to strategic and economic reasons.

The annexation of Hawaii was crucial to the U.S. predominantly due to strategic and economic reasons. While Hawaii was indeed home to many Americans (B) and was under the influence of other foreign powers to some extent (C), the most significant reason was its strategic location (D). Positioned in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Hawaii offered an ideal location for a naval base to support the expanding U.S. Pacific fleet. It was a critical stepping stone towards Asia, particularly for trade and military activities.

Moreover, Hawaii's tropical climate made it perfect for the production of sugar and pineapple, two products with significant economic potential. An important addition to the American economy and an indispensable asset for its naval power, Hawaii was a highly attractive and valuable possession for the United States.