Final answer:
The motivation behind the annexation of Hawaii was rooted in the United States' economic interest in the sugar industry and its strategic military interests in the Pacific region. The annexation ensured the monopoly of the Hawaiian sugar market and prevented other foreign powers from establishing a presence there. Strategic considerations became even more pressing during the Spanish-American War, emphasizing Hawaii's importance to U.S. expansionist policies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase “We needed them - or at least we needed that they should go to none beside ourselves” reflects the economic and strategic motivations behind the annexation of Hawaii. The United States was particularly interested in the sugar industry and the strategic location of Hawaii, especially during the Spanish-American War. The acquisition of Hawaii was pursued to ensure that the economic benefits of Hawaiian sugar would go exclusively to the United States, and to prevent any other power from gaining a foothold in the strategically important Pacific region. Despite opposition and ethical questions regarding the illegitimate overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani, the U.S. proceeded with the annexation to serve its interests.
American businessmen, primarily from the sugar industry, had significant incentives to push for annexation. With the imposition of tariffs threatening their profits, the annexation would allow them to bypass these tariffs, thus safeguarding their financial interests. On a strategic level, the U.S. government was keen on maintaining its growing influence and securing a mid-Pacific naval base, which was vital for projecting power, particularly after acquiring the Philippines and leading up to the construction of the Panama Canal.