Kamehameha III

Definition

Kamehameha III, also known as Kauikeaouli, was the King of Hawaii from 1825 to 1854 and is recognized for his pivotal role in establishing a constitutional monarchy and modernizing the Hawaiian Kingdom. His reign marked significant changes in governance, including the adoption of a constitution that aimed to balance traditional Hawaiian governance with modern statecraft, thus paving the way for the Hawaiian Kingdom's integration into global political dynamics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kamehameha III is credited with drafting the first written constitution of Hawaii in 1840, which established a framework for governance that included civil rights and the separation of powers.
2. His reign was marked by the Great Mahele in 1848, which fundamentally altered land ownership in Hawaii and transitioned the economy towards private property and agriculture.
3. Kamehameha III's efforts to modernize the Hawaiian Kingdom included promoting education and literacy, leading to increased Western influence and engagement.
4. During his reign, he faced pressures from foreign powers, particularly the United States, which sought greater political and economic control over Hawaii.
5. Kamehameha III's policies laid the groundwork for both modernization in Hawaii and eventual challenges to native sovereignty during subsequent administrations.

Review Questions

• How did Kamehameha III's implementation of a constitution influence governance in Hawaii?
  • Kamehameha III's implementation of a constitution in 1840 significantly transformed governance in Hawaii by formalizing a system that included checks and balances among branches of government. This move represented an effort to modernize the Hawaiian political structure while preserving some aspects of traditional leadership. The constitution promoted civil liberties, creating a legal framework that protected individual rights, which was crucial for establishing a more organized and stable government.
• Discuss the impact of the Great Mahele on Hawaiian society and economy during Kamehameha III's reign.
  • The Great Mahele had a profound impact on Hawaiian society and economy by redistributing land ownership from communal to individual ownership. This shift encouraged private enterprise and agricultural development, aligning Hawaii more closely with Western economic practices. However, it also resulted in significant changes to traditional land management practices and led to disparities in wealth among native Hawaiians as many lost their lands due to unfamiliarity with private property concepts.
• Evaluate Kamehameha III's legacy in light of the challenges faced by Hawaii after his reign, particularly concerning sovereignty and foreign intervention.
  • Kamehameha III's legacy is complex; while he initiated modernization efforts that helped shape Hawaii's political landscape, these changes also set the stage for increased foreign intervention and challenges to native sovereignty. Following his reign, American interests grew significantly, culminating in events such as the overthrow of Liliuokalani. His policies created a dual-edged sword—facilitating progress while simultaneously making the kingdom vulnerable to outside influences that would undermine its independence.

Related terms

Constitutional Monarchy:

A form of government in which a monarch shares power with a constitutionally organized government, ensuring the rule of law and the protection of individual rights.

Great Mahele:

A land division reform initiated by Kamehameha III in 1848 that redistributed land ownership in Hawaii and aimed to modernize the agricultural economy.

Liliuokalani: The last reigning monarch of Hawaii, who succeeded Kamehameha III's legacy and faced significant challenges from American interests that ultimately led to her overthrow.