Lunalilo of Hawaii (d. 1874)

Lunalilo: Hawaii's Sixth Monarch and "The People's King"

William Charles Lunalilo (born January 31, 1835, died February 3, 1874) holds a unique and significant place in Hawaiian history as the sixth monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaii. His reign, though remarkably brief from his election on January 8, 1873, until his untimely death just over a year later, left an indelible mark due to the manner of his ascension and his enduring popularity.

Royal Lineage and Early Life

Born into the highest echelons of Hawaiian nobility, Lunalilo was the son of High Chief Charles Kanaʻina and Kekāuluohi, who served as Kuhina Nui (Premier) of the Kingdom, a powerful office second only to the monarch. His lineage was impeccable; he was a grandnephew of King Kamehameha I, the revered founder of the unified Hawaiian Kingdom, making him a direct descendant of the revered House of Kamehameha through a senior branch. This distinguished heritage positioned him as one of the highest-ranking aliʻi (chiefs) of his generation.

Lunalilo received his education at the Royal School, an institution specifically established by King Kamehameha III in 1839 to educate young Hawaiian aliʻi in Western knowledge and prepare them for leadership roles within the burgeoning kingdom. Taught by American missionaries such as Amos Starr Cooke and Juliette Montague Cooke, he gained a comprehensive education that blended traditional Hawaiian values with Western learning. His eligibility for the throne was formally acknowledged and proclaimed by King Kamehameha III himself, further solidifying his legitimate claim to royal succession.

The Election of Hawaii's First Elected Monarch

The path to Lunalilo's throne was unprecedented in Hawaiian history. Following the death of King Kamehameha V in December 1872, who, unfortunately, passed without naming an heir, the Hawaiian Constitution mandated that the legislature elect a new sovereign. This presented a rare opportunity for popular choice to influence succession. Lunalilo, known for his progressive views and deep connection with the common people, emerged as the overwhelming favorite. On January 8, 1873, he was unanimously elected by the legislature of the kingdom, a testament to his immense popularity and the public's desire for a monarch who embodied their aspirations. This historic election marked him as Hawaii's first, and only, elected monarch, a stark departure from the traditional hereditary succession.

"The People's King" and Brief Reign

Lunalilo quickly earned the affectionate moniker "The People's King" (Ke Aliʻi Lokomaikaʻi o ka Lāhui) due to his democratic ascension and his genuine empathy for his subjects. He was known for his accessibility, often opening the palace grounds to the public and listening directly to their concerns. During his short reign, he advocated for significant constitutional reforms aimed at increasing the power of the people and the legislature. However, his vision for a more democratic Hawaii was tragically cut short. After a mere 381 days on the throne, King Lunalilo succumbed to tuberculosis on February 3, 1874, leaving the kingdom once again without a designated heir and necessitating another royal election.

Frequently Asked Questions about King Lunalilo

Who was Lunalilo?

Lunalilo, also known as William Charles Lunalilo, was the sixth monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaii, reigning from January 8, 1873, until his death on February 3, 1874. He was a high-ranking aliʻi and a grandnephew of King Kamehameha I, making him a direct descendant of the founding dynasty.

How did Lunalilo become King of Hawaii?

Unlike previous Hawaiian monarchs who inherited the throne, Lunalilo was elected by the legislature of the Kingdom of Hawaii on January 8, 1873. This unique process occurred because King Kamehameha V died without naming an heir, as mandated by the Hawaiian Constitution of the time.

Why was Lunalilo called "The People's King"?

He earned the title "The People's King" (Ke Aliʻi Lokomaikaʻi o ka Lāhui) due to his immense popularity, his election by the people's representatives (the legislature), and his approachable demeanor. He actively engaged with common citizens and advocated for greater popular involvement in governance, embodying a spirit of democracy.

How long did King Lunalilo reign?

King Lunalilo's reign was exceptionally brief, lasting just over one year (381 days), from January 8, 1873, to February 3, 1874, when he died from tuberculosis.

What was the Royal School?

The Royal School was an educational institution established by King Kamehameha III in 1839. Its purpose was to provide a Western-style education to young Hawaiian aliʻi (nobles), including Lunalilo, preparing them for future leadership roles within the Kingdom of Hawaii. It was taught by American missionaries like Amos Starr Cooke.