Kamehameha - The Young Warrior
As Kamehameha reached manhood events unfolded which would
further direct him towards his destiny of greatness. King Alapai
died and was succeeded by the king's son Keaweaopala. The new
ruler was not suited for the role. His subjects neither
respected nor were loyal to Keaweaopala and they rebelled
against him. The rebellion first began in Ka'u, where High Chief
Kalaniopuu led the opposing forces. Keaweaopala was killed at
Kealakekua Bay following a two-day battle. Kalaniopuu was
proclaimed king of Ka'u and Kona.
Kamehameha was introduced to battle during the brief war. At the
side of Kalaniopuu he made use of the wisdom of warfare taught
to him by Kekuhaupio. When the new king was established with his
court in Kona, Kamehameha was named his aide, which is an
esteemed position within the court.
King Kahekili of Maui sent to the court at Kailua his younger
half-brothers, twins, Kame'eiamoku and Kamanawa, with
instructions that they stay by the side of Kamehameha,
protecting and guiding him. Could this confirm that King
Kahekili believed that Kamehameha was indeed his son? It surely
suggests so.
However, Kalaniopuu had plans of his own to invade Maui and win
the district of Hana. A year was spent preparing for the battle,
building war canoes, weaponry and training the warriors. King
Kalaniopuu, accompanied by his son Keoua-of-the-Flaming-Cloak
and Kamehameha set sail for Maui. They took hold of the Kauiki
fort of Hana.
Before long another event would occur, which would affect the
islands as none other ever had.
Related Internet Resources:
http://aloha.150m.com/kamehameha.htm