Lunalilo

Lunalilo, (1835-1874), was the sixth monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi, reigning from January 8, 1873, until his death on February 3, 1874. He was a member of the House of Kalaniʻōpuʻu, a collateral branch of the Kamehameha dynasty.

Early Life and Background:

Born William Charles Lunalilo on January 31, 1835, he was the son of High Chief Charles Kanaʻina and High Chiefess Miriam Kekauluohi, also known as Kekauʻōnohi II. Lunalilo’s mother was a granddaughter of Kamehameha I, placing him within the ranks of the aliʻi, the Hawaiian nobility. He received a Western education, attending the Royal School (also known as Chiefs' Children's School), where he was educated alongside other future Hawaiian leaders.

Reign:

Upon the death of King Kamehameha V in 1872, without naming an heir, the Hawaiian constitution mandated a popular election of the monarch by the legislative assembly. Lunalilo, known for his progressive views and popularity among the common people, was overwhelmingly elected. He was the first elected monarch of Hawai'i.

Lunalilo sought to amend the 1864 Constitution to give more power to the people and lessen the influence of foreign advisors. He also expressed interest in renegotiating the Reciprocity Treaty of 1875 with the United States, advocating for terms more favorable to Hawaiʻi. However, his efforts were met with resistance, and he was unable to fully implement his desired reforms.

Health and Death:

Lunalilo's reign was short-lived. He contracted tuberculosis, likely exacerbated by heavy drinking, and died on February 3, 1874, at the age of 39. Like Kamehameha V, Lunalilo died without naming a successor. This led to another election, resulting in the ascension of David Kalākaua to the throne.

Legacy:

Lunalilo is remembered as "The People's King" due to his popular support and his efforts to reform the government. He established the Lunalilo Home, a charitable institution for elderly and orphaned Hawaiians, using his own funds. The home continues to operate today, a testament to his philanthropic legacy. His reign, though brief, represented a significant moment in Hawaiian history, marking a shift toward greater democratic participation.