Kaahumanu

Kaahumanu

Regent of the Hawaiian Kingdom, wife of King Kamehameha I
Date of Birth: 17.03.1768
Country: Dive

Content:
  1. Kaʻahumanu: The First Hawaiian Feminist
  2. Reign as Regent
  3. Progressive Views
  4. Trade Agreement and Legacy
  5. Final Years and Death

Kaʻahumanu: The First Hawaiian Feminist

Early Life and Marriage

Kaʻahumanu was born into Hawaiian royalty, the daughter of Keaʻau, King Kamehameha I's trusted advisor. At the age of 13, she was betrothed to the king, becoming one of his eight wives. Among them, Kaʻahumanu was his favorite and a significant influence in his pursuit of unifying the Hawaiian Islands.

Reign as Regent

After Kamehameha I's death in 1819, Kaʻahumanu assumed the position of regent, jointly ruling with his son Liholiho (Kamehameha II). Initially holding the title of prime minister, she eventually claimed the title of "Queen Regent," which she retained under Kamehameha III.

Progressive Views

Kaʻahumanu's reign was marked by her progressive views. She introduced the tradition of dining together with the king, breaking centuries of tradition. She also publicly declared her intention to convert to Protestantism and encouraged the baptism of her subjects, albeit expelling Catholic missionaries from the Hawaiian Islands.

Trade Agreement and Legacy

In 1826, Kaʻahumanu negotiated the first trade agreement with the United States, solidifying diplomatic relations between the two nations. Her legacy is marked by her exceptional leadership, her influence on Hawaiian politics, and her vision for a more equitable society.

Final Years and Death

Kaʻahumanu's health declined in her later years. In 1827, she fell ill and passed away on June 5, 1832. As a tribute to her, missionaries translated the New Testament into Hawaiian, marking a significant contribution to Hawaiian literacy.

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