History of the Big Island

Information about the history of the Big Island of Hawaii. See also Big Island Travel Guide and our guides Other Hawaiian Islands.

Believed to be the first Hawaiian Island discovered and settled by Polynesians, perhaps as early as the fifth century, Hawaii's Big Island has been the scene of many of the state's historic events.

The birthplace of King Kamehameha I, the Big Island was the one from which he launched forays to unify the islands. For a time, it was the capital of the kingdom. Hawaii's Big Island was also the scene of King Kamehameha I's death, and with it the end of the kapu system, abolished by his successor (and son) Kamehameha II in 1819.

Kealakekua Bay,Captain Cook's first Big Island landfall in 1779, and the scene of his death, is the site where the first Christian service (a seaman's burial) was performed on Hawaii's shores.

Today, much of ancient Hawaii can still be seen throughout the island, where historical sites have been preserved.

Resources

- Historic Sites on Hawaii Island
- Museums on Hawaii Island
- Kona Historical Society

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General Information About Hawaii

About the Islands of Hawaii

Visitor Destinations in Hawaii

Hawaii for Visitors

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