Final answer:
America's annexation of Hawaii was driven by economic interests, strategic military considerations during the Spanish-American War, and the U.S.'s broader imperialistic ambitions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The annexation of Hawaii can be understood as part of the United States' broader policy of imperialistic expansion during the late nineteenth century.
Economic interests, particularly the sugar industry, played a substantial role in the U.S.'s desire to annex Hawaii. American businessmen faced increased tariffs on sugar with the passage of the McKinley Tariff, which threatened their profits; annexation offered a solution by eliminating those tariffs. Furthermore, following the overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani, who opposed American influence, the strategic importance of Hawaii became even more evident during the Spanish-American War.
Hawaii's location provided the U.S. with military advantages, serving as a midpoint between the mainland and other Pacific territories such as the Philippines. Ultimately, annexation also aligned with the U.S.'s imperialistic ambitions and the perception of spreading democracy and American values.