Does Hawaii still have a king? This question often piques the curiosity of both residents and visitors to the islands. Despite the fact that Hawaii became a state of the United States in 1959, the legacy of the Hawaiian monarchy remains a significant part of the state’s history and culture. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and delve into the fascinating history of Hawaii’s royal family.
The Hawaiian monarchy dates back to the early 19th century when King Kamehameha I unified the islands under his rule. Over the next century, the Hawaiian kingdom flourished, with various monarchs leaving a lasting impact on the islands. However, the reign of Queen Liliuokalani in the late 19th century marked a turning point in Hawaii’s history.
In 1893, a group of American and European businessmen, along with members of the Hawaiian government, overthrew Queen Liliuokalani in a coup d’état. The Hawaiian monarchy was effectively dissolved, and Hawaii became a territory of the United States in 1898. Since then, the Hawaiian monarchy has been reduced to a largely ceremonial role, with the last reigning monarch being King Kalakaua’s great-granddaughter, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop.
While the Hawaiian monarchy is no longer an active governing body, the title of “king” is still recognized and honored in Hawaii. The current head of the Hawaiian royal family is Princess Abigail Kawananakoa, who is the great-granddaughter of King Kalakaua. Although she does not hold any political power, Princess Abigail continues to represent the legacy of the Hawaiian monarchy and works to preserve the state’s rich cultural heritage.
One of the most notable aspects of the Hawaiian monarchy’s legacy is the Hawaiian sovereignty movement. This movement seeks to restore Hawaii’s independence from the United States and recognize the indigenous Hawaiian people’s rights to self-determination. The movement often references the Hawaiian monarchy as a symbol of Hawaiian identity and independence.
In conclusion, while Hawaii does not have an active king as the head of state, the title of “king” is still recognized and honored in the state. The Hawaiian monarchy’s legacy continues to be an important part of Hawaii’s history and culture, and the efforts of the royal family to preserve this heritage are commendable. The question of whether Hawaii still has a king is not just about the presence of a living monarch but also about the enduring spirit of the Hawaiian monarchy and its impact on the islands’ identity.
