The Annexation of Hawaii

This political cartoon is about the annexation of Hawaii. The cartoonist’s message on the issue is against the taking of Hawaii, because Hawaii was its own independent country. Hawaii didn’t need the help or guidance of the United States. I can see the opinion of American planters in Hawaii that helped overthrow the queen. They wanted power and money. Then after they overthrew the queen they sent a request to be annexed to the U.S. So basically their entire opinion is more, more, more.

The cartoonist used symbolism because the pineapple represents Hawaii and all the resources and economic opportunities it could offer. The crown above the pineapple and the hand squeezing it represents the Hawaiian Queen Liliuokalani who opposed the annexation of her islands. This cartoon supports anti-imperialism, because Hawaii was its own place and government and Americans came in and took control. This is expanding influence, a direct line to imperialism.AnnexHwii

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