Kiha-a-Piilani facts for kids

Kiha-a-Piilani was an important Alii nui (meaning 'high chief' or 'king') of the island of Maui. He was born around the year 1626.

Kiha was the son of Chief Piʻilani of Maui, a powerful ruler known for building large heiau (ancient Hawaiian temples). His mother's name was La’ieloheloheikawai.

How Kiha Became King

After Chief Piʻilani passed away, Kiha's older brother, Lono-a-Piilani, became the new ruler of Maui. Kiha, however, had to leave Maui and found safety with his sister, Piʻikea. She was married to ʻUmi-a-Liloa, who was the king of Hawaiʻi Island.

At King ʻUmi's court, Kiha's sister strongly supported him. She convinced ʻUmi to help Kiha become the ruler of Maui instead of his brother Lono. King ʻUmi agreed and prepared a large group of warriors to travel to Maui.

The Invasion of Maui

King ʻUmi called together the chiefs from different parts of Hawaiʻi Island to get ready for the journey. Once everything was prepared, King ʻUmi himself led the group. His wife (Kiha's sister) and Kiha, along with their bravest warriors, joined the expedition.

They sailed across the ʻAlenuihāhā Channel, which is the water between Maui and Hawaiʻi. Their ships landed at Kapueokahi, a harbor in Hāna, Maui. This was where Lono had been living.

Lono could not stop ʻUmi's forces from landing. So, he went to a strong fort on top of a nearby hill called Kauwiki. King ʻUmi's army surrounded the fort. After some time and several attempts, they finally captured it. Lono was defeated in the battle, and Kiha-a-Piʻilani was then announced and accepted as the new king of Maui. After achieving this, King ʻUmi and his forces returned to Hawaiʻi Island.

Personal Life

Kiha married a chiefess named Kumaka, who was from Hana. Their son was Kamalalawalu.