Kaomi facts for kids
Kaomi was a special companion and trusted advisor to King Kamehameha III. The King even called him "Ke-lii-kui," which means "engrafted king" of the Kingdom of Hawaii. Kaomi's father, Moe, was from Bora Bora, and his mother, Ka-hua-moa, was a native Hawaiian woman. Kaomi was not only close to Kamehameha III but also a good friend of Kaʻahumanu's brother, Ka-hekili Keʻe-au-moku.
Kaomi's Rise to Power
Kaomi quickly became important to King Kamehameha III. This was because he had a very good education. He was also skilled in healing. People said Kaomi could tell what was wrong with someone just by touching them. Then, he would know the right medicine to give. He learned these healing skills from Boki and Kaʻoʻo.
The King trusted Kaomi's advice because it always proved to be true. Kaomi was also good at telling fun and interesting stories. These talents made the King favor him greatly. Soon, Kaomi received a special title: "moi kuʻi, aupuni kuʻi." This meant "joint king" or "joint ruler."
With this new title, Kaomi gained much power. Appointed chiefs, warriors, and guards helped him become well-known and respected. He had the power to decide who received land, clothing, or money. He could grant or deny these things to any chief, citizen, or even members of the King's own family. Kaomi also had the power to give or lend things for the government.
This period became known as "The time of Kaomi."
The End of Kaomi's Influence
Kaomi held his powerful position for a short time. He was removed due to pressure from the Calvinist Church in Hawaii. In the 1800s, the church had a lot of influence. Kaomi had once been a Protestant minister in Queen Kaʻahumanu's court. But he left that role when he became close to the King.
After Queen Kaʻahumanu died, Kamehameha III named Kīnaʻu as the next Kuhina Nui (a high-ranking advisor). The Christian community blamed Kaomi for many of the problems during this time. They did not approve of some of the King's actions.
Efforts to Remove Kaomi
Many Christian chiefs believed Kaomi was responsible for the King's behavior. They thought the King was not acting in a way that fit Christian beliefs. So, they began to plan how to remove Kaomi.
Chief Kaikioʻewa, who was a guardian to the King, and Hoapili created a secret plan. Their goal was to take away Kaomi's power and influence. When Kīnaʻu heard about this plan, she protested. King Kamehameha III quickly stepped in. He fought with Kaikioʻewa to protect Kaomi.
The King took Kaomi home to keep him safe. However, King Kamehameha III himself passed away within the year. Kaikioʻewa accused the King of not focusing on his duties as a leader. He believed the King was too caught up in activities that were seen as "evil" by the Christian community.
