Hawaii | The transition from an autocratic kingdom to a constitutional monarchy

Hawaii

Ke Kumu Kanawai, a me na Kanawai o ko Hawaii Pae Aina. Ua kauia i ke kau ia Kamehameha III. Honolulu, Oahu: [Mission Press], 1841

8vo (178 x 105 mm). Fore-edges of first two leaves strengthened, some light staining and scattered foxing, particularly in the latter half of text. Modern morocco, smooth spine, black morocco label.

"The first constitution and laws of the Hawaiian Islands, and one of the great achievements of the reign of Kamehameha III" (Forbes). The title translates as "The Foundation of Law, Declaration of Rights and Constitution, and the Laws of the Hawaiian Islands."

An extraordinarily important Hawaiian imprint, signifying the transition from an autocratic kingdom to a constitutional monarchy. The first fourteen pages contain the text of the constitution, signed in print by the King 8 October 1840, and includes the "Hawaiian Bill of Rights" in the Preamble. The prerogatives of the King and the duties of the premier are delineated, as are the roles of the four governors of the islands, the House of Nobles, and the lower body of the legislature. These laws were printed at the Mission Press for the Hawaiian government, in a run of 5,000 copies.

REFERENCE

Forbes, Hawaiian National Bibliography 1269; Streeter sale 3760