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Today in History: Hawaiian Kingdom Overthrown by Thurston and Committee

1/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 17, 1893, Lorrin A. Thurston and the Committee of Safety orchestrated a coup against Queen Lili‘uokalani, leading to the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Supported by U.S. Minister John L. Stevens and U.S. Marines, the insurgents established the Republic of Hawaii, aiming for eventual annexation by the United States, which occurred in 1898.

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Story summary

On January 17, 1893, Lorrin A. Thurston and the Committee of Safety orchestrated a coup against Queen Lili‘uokalani, leading to the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Supported by U.S. Minister John L. Stevens and U.S. Marines, the insurgents established the Republic of Hawaii, aiming for eventual annexation by the United States, which occurred in 1898.