Provisional Government of Hawaii

Quick Facts: Who was Provisional Government of Hawaii?

Subject:

Provisional Government of Hawaii

Known for:

The post-overthrow government established after the 1893 coup against the Hawaiian Kingdom.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Foundation

The Provisional Government of Hawaii was proclaimed following the dramatic overthrow of the legitimate Hawaiian Kingdom on January 17, 1893. This action was executed by a 13-member Committee of Safety, which was chaired by Henry E. Cooper. Sanford B. Dole was designated as the first President of this new regime. The establishment of this government marked a complete replacement of the monarchy, setting the stage for immediate political restructuring and annexation efforts.

Breakthrough & Iconic Era

Immediately upon assuming office in March 1893, the Provisional Government focused intensely on securing Hawaii's speedy annexation by the United States. The leadership actively negotiated a treaty with President Benjamin Harrison, which was subsequently sent to the U.S. Senate for necessary approval. During this period, Princess Victoria Kaʻiulani remained in Washington D.C., campaigning vociferously against the coup leaders and advocating for the monarchist cause.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The Provisional Government served as a transitional body until the formal establishment of the Republic of Hawaii on July 4, 1894. Its primary historical impact was accelerating the political process that led to the end of the independent Hawaiian Kingdom. The actions taken by this government laid the groundwork for subsequent investigations and the eventual assumption of American control over the islands.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1893: 1893 Milestone — The Provisional Government of Hawaii was proclaimed following the dramatic overthrow of the legitimate Hawaiian Kingdom on January 17, 1893.
2. 1894: 1894 Milestone — The Provisional Government served as a transitional body until the formal establishment of the Republic of Hawaii on July 4, 1894.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Provisional Government of Hawaii

True or False: “The Provisional Government of Hawaii successfully negotiated a treaty with the United States that was approved by the U.S. Senate.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): While the Provisional Government negotiated a treaty with President Benjamin Harrison, this treaty was not ultimately approved by the U.S. Senate, and subsequent anti-imperialist actions by President Grover Cleveland halted its progress.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Albert Szent-Györgyi — Historical peer (Born in 1893) (1893): Pioneering Hungarian biochemist, Nobel laureate for Vitamin C and muscle research.
• Alexander Cunningham — Historical peer (Died in 1893) (1893): Pioneering British archaeologist and founder of the Archaeological Survey of India.
• Adolphe Sax — Historical peer (Died in 1894) (1894): Belgian inventor who created the saxophone and revolutionized wind instruments.
• Albert Facey — Historical peer (Born in 1894) (1894): Australian writer and World War I veteran, best known for 'A Fortunate Life'.

Frequently Asked Questions about Provisional Government of Hawaii