Kalākaua, born David Laʻamea Kamanakapuʻu Māhinulani Nālaʻiaʻehuokalani Lumialani Kalākaua, was the last king and penultimate monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi, reigning from 1874 until his death in 1891. Elected to the throne over Queen Emma following the death of King Lunalilo, Kalākaua's reign was marked by a passionate dedication to preserving and celebrating Hawaiian culture. Affectionately known as the "Merrie Monarch" for his convivial personality, he was a talented musician who enjoyed singing, playing the ukulele, and hosting grand social gatherings.
Under his patronage, traditional Hawaiian arts experienced a significant renaissance. Most notably, Kalākaua restored the public performance of the hula, which had previously been banned in the kingdom, integrating it into his coronation and birthday jubilee celebrations. His efforts to elevate Hawaiian national identity also included rebuilding the grand ʻIolani Palace and commissioning the iconic statue of Kamehameha I. To broaden the horizons of his subjects, he established a government-funded program to sponsor Hawaiian students studying abroad and embarked on a historic trip around the world in 1881.
Despite his cultural achievements, Kalākaua's reign faced severe political challenges. His extravagant expenditures and ambitious plans for a Polynesian confederation drew intense opposition from annexationists. In 1887, political pressure forced him to sign a new constitution that stripped the monarchy of much of its power. Following his death in 1891, he was succeeded by his sister, Liliʻuokalani, who would become the final monarch of Hawaiʻi.
