What happened when President Harrison attempted to annex Hawaii?

When President Harrison attempted to annex Hawaii in 1893, it was met with significant resistance, particularly from the new president, Grover Cleveland, who took office shortly after Harrison. Harrison had supported the annexation primarily due to the interests of American planters and the strategic military value of Hawaii. However, Cleveland's administration was more cautious and critical of the circumstances surrounding the annexation attempt, especially in light of the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy, which many saw as an act of imperial aggression.

Cleveland's strong opposition to the annexation was rooted in his belief in self-determination for the Hawaiian people and a desire to restore Queen Liliuokalani to her throne. As a result, Cleveland halted the annexation process and did not pursue it further, marking a significant moment in U.S. imperial policy and a reflection of the complexities involved in the relationship between the United States and Hawaii at that time. This decision was influential in shaping future discussions and actions regarding U.S. territorial expansion in the Pacific.