Which territory was annexed in 1898 during the Gilded Age?

The annexation of Hawaii in 1898 is significant in the context of the Gilded Age and American expansionism. Prior to its annexation, Hawaii was an independent kingdom with a rich cultural history and strategic importance in the Pacific. The overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893 by American businessmen and supported by U.S. forces set the stage for its annexation. This move was partly motivated by the desire to secure naval bases and economic interests in the Pacific, particularly as the United States sought to expand its influence overseas.

Hawaii's annexation was officially completed with the Newlands Resolution, which was signed by President William McKinley. This event marked a pivotal point in U.S. foreign policy, reflecting themes of imperialism that were prevalent during the Gilded Age. The annexation facilitated greater military and commercial presence in the Pacific, setting the stage for future interactions with Asian markets and territories.

While Puerto Rico, the Philippines, and Guam were also acquired in 1898 following the Spanish-American War, they were not annexed in the usual sense. Instead, they became territories of the U.S. under different circumstances related to military conflict and treaty negotiations. In contrast, Hawaii’s annexation involved direct political maneuvering and