The story of Princess Ka’iulani is remembered as a tragic one, she passed away young and frail, and never was able to fulfill her duties as Hawaii’s next ruling queen. What many people have never known, is the warrior that hid behind her beautiful physique. She was a fighter; for her country, people, and the truth. Within her short 23 years, Princess Kaiulani became Hawaii's last hope to save the monarchy that had existed for so long. Sadly, she did not accomplish this feat, and her heroism and efforts have either been overlooked or forgotten. To be knowledgeable of her childhood, teenage life, and final years is the least that can be done out of respect for this great Hawaiian Princess.
On October 16th, 1875, Victoria Kaʻiulani Kalaninuiahilapalapa Kawekiu i Lunalilo Cleghorn was born to Princess Miriam Likelike and Archibald Scott Cleghorn. The kingdom celebrated her birth as she was now the "Crown Princess", future ruler of Hawaii. Princess Kaiulani spent her early years on the beautiful estate of Ainahau in Waikiki. Her childhood was one of leisure and lightheartedness, she spent her days playing croquet with her friends, swimming, surfing, and riding her horse through the town. She was quite popular and as she grew older, she was the center of many social events and was adored by the public. Kaiulani's optimal childhood came to a halt when her mother, Likelike grew rather ill and passed away shortly after. It was a heartbreaking loss for young Kaiulani who was only eleven at the time. A few years later, her life took another turn as it was decided, upon the suggestion of cabinet minister Mr. Lorrin Thurston, that she travel to England to receive an education fit for "a future queen".
Upon King Kalakaua's consent, Princess Kaiulani set sail for England with her sister Annie Cleghorn in 1889 promising to return one year later. She became very educated of the world outside of hers and her stay in Europe extended. Annie however, returned to Hawaii soon after Kaiulani turned 15. Kaiulani visited many countries, one of which was Scotland, her father's country. He joined her in Scotland and there, she made many lasting ties with the Scottish people. In January of 1891,she received the news of King...