Kamehameha V: Architect of Modern Hawaii
An in-depth exploration of Lot Kapuāiwa's transformative reign, constitutional reforms, and enduring legacy in the Hawaiian Kingdom.
Explore Reign 👇 View Legacy 📜Dive in with Flashcard Learning!
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮
Overview
The Fifth Monarch
Kamehameha V, born Lot Kapuāiwa Kalanimakua Aliʻiōlani Kalanikupuapaʻīkalaninui, served as the fifth monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi from 1863 to 1872.[2] His reign was marked by a steadfast commitment to his people and kingdom, encapsulated in his motto "Onipaʻa," meaning immovable, firm, steadfast, or determined. He is often recognized as the last great traditional chief, embodying a blend of ancient Hawaiian values and modern governance.[4]
Key Dates & Succession
His ascension to the throne occurred on November 30, 1863, following the death of his brother, Kamehameha IV. He reigned until his own passing on December 11, 1872, which was also his birthday.[3] He was succeeded by Lunalilo, marking a significant shift in the Hawaiian monarchy's succession process. During his rule, he was supported by Kuhina Nui (co-regents) such as Victoria Kamāmalu, Kaʻahumanu IV, and Kekūanaōʻa.[Infobox]
Royal Lineage
Kamehameha V belonged to the esteemed House of Kamehameha, a dynasty that unified and ruled the Hawaiian Islands. He was the son of Elizabeth Kīnaʻu and Mataio Kekūanaōʻa, and a grandson of Kamehameha I, the revered founder of the kingdom. His burial took place on January 11, 1873, at the Mauna ʻAla Royal Mausoleum, the sacred resting place for Hawaiian royalty.[1]
Early Life & Formation
Birth and Naming
Born on December 11, 1830, he was given the name Lot Kapuāiwa. The name "Kapu āiwa" carries profound cultural significance, translating to 'mysterious kapu' or 'sacred one protected by supernatural powers,' reflecting his high birth and destiny within Hawaiian society.[Infobox] His biological parents were Elizabeth Kīnaʻu and Mataio Kekūanaōʻa, and he shared his lineage with notable siblings including David Kamehameha, Moses Kekūāiwa, Alexander Liholiho (who would become Kamehameha IV), and Victoria Kamāmalu.[5]
The Hānai Tradition
Following the ancient Hawaiian tradition of hānai, Lot was adopted first by Princess Nāhiʻenaʻena, and after her passing in 1836, by his grandmother Queen Kalākua Kaheiheimālie and step-grandfather High Chief Ulumāheihei Hoapili.[6] This practice, while culturally significant, proved challenging for Lot, who later expressed a deep dislike for it, feeling it had deprived him of his biological mother's affection. This sentiment was evident in his strong reaction to his half-sister Ruth Keelikolani's decision to give away her son, Keolaokalani, to Bernice Pauahi Bishop.[7]
Education and Early Engagements
Recognized as eligible for the throne by King Kamehameha III, Lot received his education at the Royal School alongside his royal cousins and siblings. He was initially betrothed to Bernice Pauahi, a significant figure in Hawaiian history, but she ultimately chose to marry American Charles Reed Bishop.[9] This early experience, coupled with his hānai upbringing, likely shaped his perspective on tradition and personal autonomy.
Grand Tour of the World
After completing his formal education, Prince Lot embarked on an extensive international tour in September 1849 with his brother Alexander Liholiho, under the guardianship of Dr. Judd. Their travels took them across the globe, including San Francisco, various parts of California, Panama, Jamaica, New York City, and Washington, D.C. They also toured Europe, engaging with prominent heads of state such as French President Louis Napoleon, British Prince Consort Albert, and U.S. President Zachary Taylor and Vice President Millard Fillmore. This exposure to diverse political systems and cultures undoubtedly broadened his worldview and prepared him for future leadership.[Travel]
Ascension & Governance
Public Service Before Kingship
Prior to his ascension, Lot Kapuāiwa held several crucial governmental roles, demonstrating his early commitment to public service and gaining valuable administrative experience. From 1852 to 1855, he served on the Privy Council of State, and concurrently, from 1852 to 1862, he was a member of the House of Nobles. His executive experience included serving as Minister of the Interior from 1857 to 1863, and he even held the esteemed position of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court from 1857 to 1858, among other offices.[10]
The Path to the Throne
While his younger, more charismatic brother, Prince Alexander Liholiho, was crowned Kamehameha IV in 1854,[11] Lot's position in the line of succession was formally solidified in 1862. An amendment to the 1852 Constitution of the Kingdom of Hawaii designated Lot and his heirs, followed by his sister Princess Victoria and her heirs, as successors should his brother die without legitimate issue. This amendment was enacted shortly before the tragic death of Prince Albert Kamehameha, the only son of Kamehameha IV, on August 23, 1862.[12]
A New Constitution
Upon assuming power on November 30, 1863, Kamehameha V immediately signaled a departure from the previous constitutional framework, refusing to uphold the 1852 Constitution. His primary objection centered on the universal male suffrage granted for elections to the lower House of Representatives, which he believed was not in the best interest of the kingdom.[13] In May 1864, he convened a constitutional convention, and on July 7, 1864, he proposed an entirely new constitution rather than merely amending the existing one. This new document, signed on August 20, 1864, and sworn to protect by the King, introduced literacy, property, or income qualifications for voters, reflecting his vision for a more structured and perhaps more conservative governance.[Constitution]
Progressive Policies
Foreign Policy & Appointments
Despite appointing Charles de Varigny, a French national, as his Minister of Finance in December 1863, a move that initially led some Americans in Hawaiʻi to perceive an anti-American shift, Kamehameha V's foreign policy remained consistent with previous administrations. De Varigny later served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1865 to 1869, indicating a pragmatic approach to international relations rather than a radical change in alignment.[14]
Revival of Traditional Practices
Kamehameha V distinguished himself as the first monarch to actively encourage the revival of traditional Hawaiian practices. Under his reign, laws against "kahunaism" (traditional Hawaiian priesthood and practices) were repealed, marking a significant cultural restoration. He established a Hawaiian Board of Medicine, notably including kahuna members, which led to the resurgence of la'au lapa'au, or traditional Hawaiian medicine. Furthermore, he proactively brought kahuna practitioners to Honolulu to systematically document their remedies, preserving invaluable indigenous knowledge.[15][16]
Protecting His People
In a powerful demonstration of his commitment to the well-being of his people, Kamehameha V famously refused to assent to a legislative bill in 1865 that would have granted foreign merchants the right to sell liquor directly to Native Hawaiians. His poignant declaration, "I will never sign the death warrant of my people," underscored his deep concern for the declining native Hawaiian population, which was already suffering from the devastating effects of alcoholism and other introduced diseases.[17][18]
Global Connections
Increased Island Tourism
The reign of Kamehameha V saw a notable increase in international travel to the Hawaiian Islands, fostering greater global awareness and engagement with the kingdom. This period brought various notable figures to Hawaii, contributing to its growing reputation on the world stage.
Mark Twain's Observations
In March 1866, the renowned American author Mark Twain, under his real name Samuel Clemens, arrived in Hawaii aboard the merchant ship Ajax. He spent four months on the islands, meticulously documenting his experiences in letters sent back to the Sacramento Union. Twain's observations provided a unique external perspective on the Hawaiian monarchy and its people. He famously described King Kamehameha V as a "wise sovereign" who had "seen something of the world," was "educated & accomplished," and "tried hard to do well by his people, & succeeded." Twain noted the King's lack of "trivial royal nonsense," his plain dress, and his habit of moving about Honolulu "night or day, on his old horse, unattended," concluding that he was "popular, greatly respected, and even beloved."[19]
Royal Visitors & Cultural Gifts
International diplomatic relations were further strengthened by significant royal visits. In 1869, Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom sent her second son, Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh, for a state visit, highlighting the kingdom's standing among global powers. Demonstrating his commitment to cultural enrichment, Kamehameha V appealed to Kaiser Wilhelm I of Germany, who subsequently sent Henri Berger to organize the Royal Hawaiian Band. This musical ensemble became a cherished "gift of music from the king to his people," enriching Hawaiian cultural life and providing a lasting legacy.[20]
Succession & Demise
A Crisis of Succession
The issue of succession became a critical challenge during Kamehameha V's later reign. His sister and the only named Heir Apparent to the throne, Crown Princess Victoria Kamāmalu, had tragically died childless in 1866. Despite this, Kamehameha V chose not to name another successor for the remainder of his rule, a decision that would have profound implications for the future of the Hawaiian monarchy.[Succession]
The King's Last Hours
Kamehameha V passed away on December 11, 1872, a day that was also his birthday, with preparations for his celebration already underway. In his final moments, as he lay bedridden, he reportedly told visitors, "It is hard to die on my birthday, but God's will be done." In a poignant attempt to secure the future of the monarchy, he offered the throne to his cousin, Bernice Pauahi Bishop, who, however, refused the offer. The King died an hour later without formally designating an heir.[21][22]
The Elected King
With no designated heir, Kamehameha V's death marked the end of the Kamehameha dynasty's direct succession under the Kamehameha name. His final wishes regarding the succession were clear: "The throne belongs to Lunalilo; I will not appoint him, because I consider him unworthy of the position. The constitution, in case I make no nomination, provides for the election of the next King; let it be so."[Statement] Consequently, the legislature was tasked with electing the next monarch. Kamehameha V's cousin, William Charles Lunalilo, who was a Kamehameha by birth through his mother, campaigned for a general election and ultimately won, becoming the first elected king of the Hawaiian Kingdom.[24]
A Question of Paternity
Historical records indicate that Lot Kapuāiwa had a daughter, Keanolani (July 7, 1847 – June 30, 1902), with Abigail Maheha. However, her illegitimate birth precluded her from succeeding to the Hawaiian throne. Speculation regarding Kamehameha V's paternity of Keanolani persists, with supporting evidence including his financial support for Abigail's husband, veiled conversations recorded by the Cookes months before the pregnancy was discovered, and the suspicious absence of entries from his school journal during that period.[27][28][29][30][31]
Enduring Legacy
Royal Order of Kamehameha I
On April 11, 1865, Kamehameha V founded the Royal Order of Kamehameha I society. This prestigious order was established to honor his illustrious grandfather, Kamehameha I, and to recognize individuals who rendered distinguished service to the Hawaiian Kingdom. The Order continues to exist today, preserving a vital link to the monarchy's heritage and its commitment to national pride and service.[25]
Prince Lot Hula Festival
His cultural contributions are celebrated annually through the Prince Lot Hula Festival, named in his honor. Since 1977, this vibrant festival has been held on the third Saturday in July at Moanalua Gardens, which was once his cherished home. The festival serves as a significant event for the preservation and promotion of traditional Hawaiian hula, reflecting Kamehameha V's pioneering efforts in reviving indigenous practices and arts.[26]
Distinguished Honors
International Recognition
Kamehameha V received several prestigious honors from various nations, reflecting his standing as a respected monarch on the global stage. These accolades underscore the diplomatic relationships cultivated during his reign and the recognition of the Hawaiian Kingdom as a sovereign entity.
Teacher's Corner
Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio
Click here to open the "Kamehameha V" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit
Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.
True or False?
Test Your Knowledge!
Gamer's Corner
Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!
Play now
References
References
- Chun, Malcolm Naea. Must We Wait in Despair? The 1867 Report of the 'Ahahui La'au Lapa'au of Wailuku, Maui on Native Hawaiian Health (First Peoples Productions, 1994)
- Chai, Makana Risser. Na Mo'olelo Lomilomi: Traditions of Hawaiian Massage and Healing (Bishop Museum, 2005)
Feedback & Support
To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.
Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional historical or political advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for in-depth academic research, historical analysis, or expert consultation. Always refer to primary historical sources, peer-reviewed academic publications, and consult with qualified historians or cultural experts for specific research needs or interpretations of historical events. Never disregard professional academic guidance because of something you have read on this website.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.