Hānau ma ka lolo, for the benefit of her race: a portrait of Emma Kaʻilikapuolono Metcalf Beckley Nakuina

Abstract

The first question this thesis will address is: What is a kaukau aliʻi and what designated Emma as one? The definition of kaukau aliʻi and the responsibilities that the position entails will be discussed. Genealogy determines who is kaukau aliʻi, so Emma's genealogy will also be explored. By focusing first on the background that birthed and reared Emma--both Hawaiian and American--we will see the foundation that her skills and beliefs were built upon, and how her what was passed on to her through her ancestors shaped the person and professional that she would become. The second question is: Who is Emma Nakuina? We will find out more about this remarkable woman by exploring her life and the people that surrounded her. Her family, royal status, schooling, and activities she was involved in, along with some of the biggest personal challenges she faced will all be brought out in an effort to answer this question. These early life experiences help to better understand some of her motivations for her actions throughout the rest of her life. The last question is: How did Emma Nakuina fulfill her role as a kaukau aliʻi in the kingdom era? Nakuina overcame many setbacks, both personally and professionally, but all of that was further burdened with large-scale societal and political changes. Yet, she managed to keep her professional positions through five governments. More so, she used whatever means were at her disposal to fulfill what she believed to be her duty as a kaukau aliʻi.