King of Hawaii, 1874–91. When King Kamehameha died in 1872, he was a candidate for the throne, but his opponent, William Lunalilo, was elected by the people, and confirmed by the legislature. The latter died within a year, and in February, 1874 Kalakaua was elected to the vacant throne by a legislature that had been convened for the purpose. Kalakaua almost single-handedly restored many of the nearly extinct cultural traditions of the Hawaiian people. These included myths and legends, and the hula, which had been forbidden by the missionaries for over 70 years. Fountain pen signature, “Kalakaua Rex, Honolulu Hawaiian Island, September 13, 1880,” on an off-white 4.5 x 2.5 slip. In fine condition, with a single fold lightly affecting one stroke of the signature and scattered light soiling and toning. RRAuction COA.
