King of the Hawaiian Islands Kamehameha IV

Born Alexander Liholiho in 1834, Kamehameha IV became the fourth monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi in 1855. He was the grandson of Kamehameha I and had been named heir by Kamehameha III, who had adopted him in the Hawaiian tradition of hānai.

His reign was shaped by the challenge of preserving Hawaiian independence while outside influence, especially from the United States, was growing stronger. He is often noted for resisting annexationist pressure and for favoring closer ties with Britain and other powers as a way to protect the kingdom's sovereignty.

He and his wife, Queen Emma, are especially remembered for their efforts to improve public health after devastating epidemics had harmed the Native Hawaiian population. Together they raised support for Queen's Hospital in Honolulu, a major act of service that remains central to his legacy. Kamehameha IV died in 1863, still only 29 years old.