What was the primary reason for the U.S. annexation of Hawaii?

The primary reason for the U.S. annexation of Hawaii was to establish a military base and secure sugar trade. In the late 19th century, Hawaii's strategic location in the Pacific made it an ideal spot for military applications, especially as a coaling station for naval ships and a refueling station for the U.S. Navy. The construction of Pearl Harbor as a naval base exemplifies this military importance.

Additionally, the annexation was driven by economic interests, particularly in the sugar industry. American planters had established profitable sugar plantations in Hawaii and sought to ensure that they could benefit from U.S. tariffs and trade agreements. The McKinley Tariff of 1890 made Hawaiian sugar less competitive in American markets, which heightened the urgency for annexation. By bringing Hawaii into the United States, sugar planters aimed to eliminate tariffs on their products and gain a more secure market for their exports.

Thus, both military strategy and economic ambitions were crucial elements in the decision to annex Hawaii, making this option the most accurate choice regarding the motivations behind U.S. imperialist actions in the region.