Final answer:
The Hawaiian islands were economically important to the US due to their strategic location in the Pacific Ocean, the sugar industry, and facilitation of trade with Asia.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Hawaiian islands played a significant role in the American economy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The primary reason was the islands' strategic location in the Pacific, which allowed them to serve as an important stopping point for ships traveling between Asia and the West Coast of the United States.
The islands' economy was primarily based on the sugar industry, with vast sugar plantations being established by American businessmen. The production of sugar in Hawaii was crucial for the US economy, as it provided a substantial amount of sugar for American consumers.
Hawaii was also important for trade with Asia. The islands served as a crucial hub for American ships, facilitating trade between the US and countries like Japan and China.
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