Bayonet Constitution of 1887

The Bayonet Constitution of 1887 was an agreement in Hawaii that severely limited the authority of the Hawaiian monarchy, particularly King Kalākaua, and increased control by American, European, and native Hawaiian elites. It was called "Bayonet" because it was forced through under the threat of military force, even though it was presented as a constitutional change. The constitution reduced the power of native Hawaiians and the king, increased influence for foreigners, and paved the way for increased American involvement in Hawaiian government, ultimately leading to the annexation of Hawaii by the United States.