By developing alliances with the major Pacific colonial powers, Kamehameha preserved Hawai`i's independence under his rule. Kamehameha is remembered for the Law of the Splintered Paddle, which protects human rights of non-combatants in times of battle. His full Hawaiian name is Kalani Paiea Wohi o Kaleikini Keali`ikui Kamehameha o `Iolani i Kaiwikapu kaui Ka Liholiho Kunuiakea.

Kamehameha's Keawe Genealogy

Kamehameha's Rise to Power

Kamehameha The Great

"The Favorite Wife" of Kamehameha I was his constant companion and the only of his wives who met with foreigners. When he died, she became regent of Liholiho, then of his successor Kauikeaouli; she remarried, to Kaumualii, the governor of Kauai.

Kaahumanu, the "Feather Mantle"

The Woman Who Changed a Kingdom





 

Kamehameha Ist's "Sacred Wife," was mother to the heirs apparent, Liholiho and Kauikeaouli.

Keopuolani, the "Gathering Of The Clouds Of Heaven"

Died of measles in London on a visit to meet England's King George. News of his death did not reach Hawaii until 1825.

Liholiho Ascends the Throne

She was the eldest daughter and second child of Queen Kalakua Kaheiheimalie and King Kamehameha I. Kamamalu died of measles with her husband in London.

 

Became king upon Liholiho's death at age 10. He gained full control after regents Ka`ahumanu, then Kinau (a wife of Liholiho), died.

His reign was the longest of any Hawaiian monarch. He was king at a difficult period in Hawaiian history. In his time Hawaii moved from kingship to constitutional monarchy. Yearning for a return to old ways, he also rehabilitated hula dancing which had been abolished by the first missionaries.

She was the daughter of Naihekukui, a minor Kona Chief, and Chiefess I`ahu`ula. Her father was commander of the native Hawaiian fleet at Honolulu.

The grandson of Kamehameha I and the adopted son of Kamehameha III.

She was the adopted daughter of Britisher Dr. Thomas Rooke, grandniece of Kamehameha I and granddaughter of his adviser, Englishman John Young.