The Hawaiian Princess who could have been Queen

HONOLULU (KHON2) – In the ahupuaʻa of Waimalu, which lies in the moku of ʻEwa here on Oʻahu, stands a residential street with a name which translates as “queen.”

We are speaking of Kuini St.

Throughout the Hawaiian Kingdom, there were eight ruling monarchs.

King Kamehameha I founded the nation in the year 1810.

His sons, Liholiho and Kauikeaouli, succeeded him in becoming King Kamehameha II and III.

His grandsons, Alexander Liholiho and Lot Kapuāiwa, became King Kamehameha IV and V.

Through the kingdom’s first legislative election, King William Charles Lunalilo ended the use of the title of Kamehameha.

King David Kalākaua was the last male monarch, and following his passing, his sister ascended the throne as Queen Liliʻuokalani.

But history could have played out a bit different.

The first legislative election only happened because King Kamehameha V passed away before successfully naming his heir.

He had asked Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop to become Queen Pauahi, but she respectfully declined.

In what is known as the first ʻ Iolani Palace, the king laid in his deathbed surrounded by eligible candidates for the throne.

Believing she was best for his nation, the king turned to Princess Pauahi and said, “I wish for you to take my place, to be my successor.”

After a moment of hesitation, she responded with, “no, no, not me; don’t think of me.”

She recommended the king’s half-sister, Princess Ruth Keʻelikōlani, but the king stated she was not fit for the position.

Within an hour of that conversation, the king passed away without naming an heir.

So, the only ruling Queen in the Hawaiian Kingdom was Queen Liliʻuokalani.

Did you know? Now you do!