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David Kalākaua (1836–1891) was the last reigning king of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi, serving from 1874 until his death in 1891. Known as the "Merrie Monarch", he was a strong advocate of Hawaiian culture, arts, and identity at a time when outside influences were rapidly changing the islands. Kalākaua revived traditional practices such as hula, which had been suppressed by missionaries, and promoted Hawaiian music, dance, and folklore. 

His legacy lives on through the Merrie Monarch Festival, an annual celebration of Hawaiian culture and hula named in his honor. 

Kalakaua- Renaissance King by Helena G. Allen

Academy of Hawaiian Arts • Kumu Mark Kealiʻi Hoʻomalu

https://youtu.be/s5CcmXiLFMA?si=DjON6JYCV0PjLys1