Paumakua facts for kids

Paumakua was an important ancient chief in ancient Hawaii. He was known as the Aliʻi nui (or supreme ruler) of the island of Maui. Legends describe him as a powerful leader of the island. His family history, called his genealogy, is written down in an old Hawaiian chant called Kumulipo.

Because of his father, he was also known as Paumakua-a-Huanuiʻikalailai. Sometimes, he is also called Paunuikuakaolokea in the Kumulipo chant.

Paumakua was an ancestor to many future kings of Maui. However, it is believed he might not have controlled a very large part of Maui himself. He came from a long line of chiefs, tracing back to Hemā.

Historians like Abraham Fornander believe that Paumakua probably lived around the same time as his father. Another person who mentioned him was the physician Nathaniel B. Emerson.

Paumakua's Family

Paumakua's father was Chief Huanuiekalaiaʻilaʻikai. He was also known as Huanuiʻikalaʻilaʻi. His father was born on Oahu. Huanuiekalaiaʻilaʻikai's parents were Chief Paunuikaikeanaina and Kapohaʻakia.

Paumakua's mother was named Kapoea, or sometimes Kapola. She was born around the year 1010.

Not much is known about Paumakua himself. His brother, Kuheailani, is not mentioned much in Hawaiian traditions. However, Kuheailani's son, Hakalanilea, became a lord of some lands. These lands were in the Hilo area of Hawaiʻi Island.

Paumakua married his sister, Manokalililani. Their son became King Haho of Maui.

See also

In Spanish: Paumakua de Maui para niños