Kalakaua I King of Hawaii Date of Birth: 16.11.1836 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Education
2. Military and Political Involvement
3. Succession to the Throne
4. Reign
5. World Tour
6. Domestic Challenges
7. Succession and Death

Early Life and Education

King Kalakaua, the last reigning monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaii, was born into royalty as the son of High Chief Kapuakea. He received his early education at the Chiefs' Children's School, where he excelled in both English and Hawaiian language. At the age of 16, he commenced legal studies but his royal status prevented him from completing his legal training.

Military and Political Involvement

By 1856, the young Kalakaua had risen to the rank of Major in King Kamehameha IV's army. He also became the leader of the political organization known as the Young Hawaiians, whose motto was "Hawaii for Hawaiians." In addition to his military duties, Kalakaua was appointed Adjutant General in 1863.

Succession to the Throne

Upon the death of King Kamehameha V in 1872, a succession crisis ensued. According to the kingdom's constitution, a new king was to be appointed by the legislature if no successor had been named by the monarch. Two prominent chiefs, William Lunalilo and Kalakaua, emerged as the leading candidates. Lunalilo, a distant cousin of Kamehameha V, was initially more popular due to his liberal views. However, Kalakaua, a conservative, campaigned on a promise to appoint only native Hawaiians to government positions and revise the constitution.

In the 1873 general election, Lunalilo won an overwhelming majority of the votes. However, in 1874, following Lunalilo's untimely death, Kalakaua was elected king by a majority of the Hawaiian National Assembly.

Reign

Kalakaua's reign was marked by efforts to revive Hawaiian culture and strengthen the kingdom's international standing. He embarked on a tour of the Hawaiian Islands, which improved his popularity. In 1874, he traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with President Ulysses S. Grant and secure a trade treaty that allowed certain Hawaiian goods to be imported into the United States duty-free.

World Tour

In 1881, Kalakaua embarked on an ambitious world tour, aiming to promote immigration, foster international relations, and observe the governance of other leaders. He visited Japan, China, Thailand, India, Egypt, Europe, and the United States. His journey made him the first reigning monarch to circumnavigate the globe.

Domestic Challenges

Despite Kalakaua's efforts to strengthen the monarchy, he faced ongoing conflict with the "Missionary Party," who advocated for a more democratic government. This power struggle persisted throughout his reign.

Succession and Death

Upon his return from the world tour, Kalakaua named his sister, Liliuokalani, as his successor, ending the era of elected kings. He died in San Francisco on January 20, 1891, and his funeral was held with great pomp and ceremony. Kalakaua's legacy as a symbol of Hawaiian national identity and his efforts to preserve the kingdom's sovereignty continue to be celebrated today.