Before becoming America's 50th state, Hawaii stood as a sovereign kingdom with its own monarchy, complex political system, and international recognition. This royal heritage makes Hawaii unique among all U.S. states and continues to influence its culture and identity today.
Among America's 50 states, only one was once a sovereign kingdom with its own monarchy, royal palaces, and international diplomatic recognition. Hawaii , the island paradise in the Pacific, holds the distinction of being the only U.S. state with a royal past —a history that continues to shape its unique cultural identity and political landscape today.
While other territories that became U.S. states were colonies, territories, or parts of other nations, Hawaii stood as an independent kingdom with a complex governmental structure and dynastic succession. This royal heritage sets Hawaii apart and provides a fascinating historical backdrop to its eventual incorporation into the United States.
The Formation of the Kingdom of Hawaii
The Kingdom of Hawaii emerged in 1795 when King Kamehameha I (also known as Kamehameha the Great) united most of the Hawaiian islands under his rule after years of conflict. By 1810 , he had peacefully added the island of Kauai, creating a unified Hawaiian Kingdom that would last for nearly a century.
Kamehameha established a monarchy that blended traditional Hawaiian governance with Western political concepts. He implemented a system of land division called the ahupuaʻa , which extended from mountain ridges to the sea, ensuring communities had access to various resources. His leadership laid the foundation for Hawaii's development as a recognized nation on the world stage.
The Hawaiian Monarchy: Eight Kings and Queens
Over its 83-year history as a unified kingdom (1810-1893), Hawaii was ruled by eight monarchs across two major dynasties:
- Kamehameha Dynasty (1810-1872): Beginning with Kamehameha I and continuing through Kamehameha V
- Kalākaua Dynasty (1874-1893): Starting with King Kalākaua and ending with Queen Liliʻuokalani
King Kamehameha III had the longest reign (29 years) and oversaw Hawaii's transition to a constitutional monarchy in 1840. This first constitution established a legislature, judiciary, and executive branch, creating one of the most progressive governments in the Pacific region at that time.
The last reigning monarch, Queen Liliʻuokalani , ascended to the throne in 1891. A gifted composer and dedicated leader, she is best known for writing "Aloha ʻOe" (Farewell to Thee). Her reign would face significant challenges from American business interests and annexationists.
Western Influence and Challenges
Throughout the 19th century, the Hawaiian Kingdom maintained diplomatic relations with major world powers , including the United States, Great Britain, France, and Japan. Hawaii established over 90 diplomatic and consular posts worldwide, demonstrating its standing as a sovereign nation.
However, Western influence steadily grew as American missionaries, businessmen, and planters gained economic and political power. The sugar industry , dominated by American interests, became increasingly central to Hawaii's economy. By the 1880s, these foreign businessmen sought greater control over Hawaiian governance and resources.
King Kalākaua signed the controversial Bayonet Constitution in 1887 under threat of violence, which stripped the monarchy of much of its authority and limited voting rights primarily to wealthy Europeans and Americans.
The Overthrow and U.S. Annexation
The Hawaiian monarchy came to an abrupt end on January 17, 1893 , when a group of American and European businessmen, with support from U.S. Minister John L. Stevens and U.S. Marines from the USS Boston, overthrew Queen Liliʻuokalani . The queen yielded her authority under protest, stating she was doing so to avoid bloodshed but expected the United States government to restore her to power once the true circumstances were known.
President Grover Cleveland initially opposed the overthrow, calling it an "act of war" and demanding restoration of the queen. However, his successor, William McKinley , supported annexation. In 1898 , amid the Spanish-American War and growing American expansionism, the United States annexed Hawaii through a joint resolution of Congress rather than a treaty—a controversial move that some scholars argue violated international law.
Hawaii remained a U.S. territory until August 21, 1959 , when it became the 50th state of the Union following a referendum. Notably, the ballot did not offer independence as an option.
Hawaii's Royal Legacy Today
Hawaii's royal history remains visible throughout the islands, particularly in Honolulu. Iolani Palace , the only royal palace on U.S. soil , stands as a powerful symbol of the kingdom's legacy. Built in 1882 by King Kalākaua, the palace featured electricity and telephones before the White House .
Other royal sites include:
- Royal Mausoleum at Mauna ʻAla , where most of Hawaii's monarchs are interred
- Queen Emma Summer Palace , a retreat for Queen Emma and King Kamehameha IV
- Bishop Museum , which houses royal artifacts and genealogical records
- Washington Place , Queen Liliʻuokalani's residence and later the governor's mansion
Many traditional royal celebrations are still observed, including King Kamehameha Day on June 11, which honors the kingdom's founder with parades and lei-draping ceremonies of his statues.
The Hawaiian Sovereignty Movement
The overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy continues to influence contemporary politics through the Hawaiian sovereignty movement . This diverse movement includes groups seeking outcomes ranging from complete independence to recognition as an indigenous nation within the United States.
In 1993 , Congress passed the Apology Resolution (Public Law 103-150) , in which the United States formally apologized for its role in the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. While this resolution did not restore sovereignty, it acknowledged the historical injustice of the overthrow.
Today, discussions about Hawaiian self-determination continue. Native Hawaiian cultural practices, language revitalization efforts, and land rights activism often connect to this royal heritage. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs , established by the state constitution, advocates for Native Hawaiians and manages lands held in trust.
Hawaii's unique status as America's only former kingdom provides not just historical interest but ongoing questions about sovereignty, indigenous rights, and the complex legacy of America's territorial expansion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaii: The Only U.S. State That Was Once a Sovereign Kingdom
Why was Hawaii the only U.S. state that was once a kingdom?
Hawaii was uniquely positioned as an independent, internationally recognized sovereign nation with its own monarchy, unlike other territories that became U.S. states. Most other states were either colonies of European powers, territories previously belonging to Mexico or other nations, or lands claimed through westward expansion. Hawaii developed as a unified kingdom under Kamehameha I in 1795 and maintained its sovereignty until the 1893 overthrow.
Who was the last Hawaiian monarch?
Queen Liliʻuokalani was the last monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaii. She ascended to the throne in 1891 following the death of her brother, King Kalākaua. A strong advocate for Hawaiian sovereignty, she attempted to restore power to the monarchy and native Hawaiians through a new constitution before being overthrown in 1893 by American business interests with support from U.S. military forces.
Is the Hawaiian royal family still recognized today?
While the Hawaiian monarchy was officially overthrown in 1893, descendants of the royal family still exist and are recognized within Hawaiian cultural contexts. There is no officially recognized royal family in a governmental sense, but certain family lines maintain their royal genealogies and participate in cultural ceremonies. Various individuals have claimed to be heirs to the throne, though these claims aren't recognized by the U.S. government.
Can visitors tour the Hawaiian royal palace?
Yes, Iolani Palace in downtown Honolulu is open to the public for tours. As the only royal palace on U.S. soil, it offers guided and self-led tours where visitors can see the throne room, royal living quarters, and historical artifacts. The palace has been meticulously restored to its appearance during the monarchy period, featuring original furnishings and royal regalia that have been recovered over the years.
How did Hawaii become part of the United States?
Hawaii became part of the United States through a controversial process beginning with the 1893 overthrow of Queen Liliʻuokalani by American business interests supported by U.S. military forces. A provisional government was established, followed by the Republic of Hawaii. In 1898, during the Spanish-American War, the U.S. annexed Hawaii via a joint resolution of Congress (the Newlands Resolution) rather than a treaty. Hawaii remained a territory until 1959, when it became the 50th state following a referendum.