[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 76 (Tuesday, June 11, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S5362]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   COMMEMORATION OF KING KAMEHAMEHA I

 Mr. AKAKA. Mr. President, I rise today in commemoration of the 
birthday of Hawaii's first monarch, King Kamehameha I. More than two 
centuries since his birth, Kamehameha is a legendary, indeed, mythical 
figure renown worldwide for his bravery and martial brilliance. He 
commands the respect of Hawaii's people for his wise and just 
leadership, and his accomplishments continue to influence and govern 
Hawaii today.
  Historically, Kamehameha is notable because of his brilliance as a 
military strategist and political leader. Kamehameha adapted Western 
innovation, weaponry, and science to gain a decisive advantage in his 
drive to unify the Hawaiian Islands. For Native Hawaiians and the 
people of Hawaii, Kamehameha is beloved for his concern and attention 
to the well-being of his subjects and for his commitment to do what was 
just and right for the people.
  Kamehameha's wisdom, even more than his strength, stature, and 
daring, is his greatest and most enduring legacy for Hawaii's 
indigenous peoples--the Native Hawaiians, the people of Hawaii, and all 
students of history. Mamalohoe, the Law of the Splintered Paddle, is 
the most prominent example of Kamehameha as a wise and just leader. 
Mamalahoe is Hawaii's first Bill of Rights protecting the common people 
from assault, and it is still part of our State's constitution.
  One hundred and ninety years ago, in the summer of 1812, Kamehameha 
returned to the Kona Coast. Having unified the islands and established 
peace and stability, Kamehameha worked to build prosperity for his 
people by increasing agricultural production and foreign trade.
  The first observance of a day honoring King Kamehameha was proclaimed 
by King Kamehameha V on June 11, 1872, in the Kingdom of Hawaii. It 
remains an annual holiday in the State of Hawaii. This year marks the 
130th anniversary of the only holiday in the United States created to 
honor a once-reigning monarch in the only state that was once a 
kingdom, the State of Hawaii.

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