| Kalaunuiohua | |
| Spouse: | Lady Kaheka (half-sister) |
| Parents: | Lady Kapo Chief Kahaimoelea |
Kalaunuiohua (nui = “great”, ohua = "servant") was a High Chief of the island of Hawaiʻi in ancient Hawaii.[1] He was a member of the Pili line. Kalau is his short name.
Kalaunuiohua was born on Hawaiʻi (the Big Island), as a son of High Chief Kahaimoelea (Kahai IV) and his half-sister, Lady Kapo.[2] (According to the ancient legends, he was a descendant of the handsome noble ‘Aikanaka and the Moon goddess Hina.) He succeeded his father.[3]
The wife of Kalaunuiohua was his half-sister, Chiefess Kaheka — they had the same mother. The couple produced at least one child, Chief Kuaiwa,[4] the successor of his father Kalaunuiohua. Kaheka later married Kunuiakanaele.
Kalaunuiohua was famous warrior chief, and his battles are mentioned in the chants.He amassed an army and invaded the island of Maui, where Kamaluohua was the reigning chief. A battle was fought, in which Kamaluohua was defeated and taken prisoner. Kalaunuiohua then preceded to invade the island of Molokai, where Kahokuohua was the principal chief or Moi. Kahokuohua was defeated conquered, and taken prisoner. Kalaunuiohua now aimed at subjugating Oahu. Kalaunuiohua landed his forces at Waianae and gave battle to Huapouleilei, principal chief of the Ewa and Waianae division of Oahu island. Huapouleilei was defeated and taken prisoner. Kalau did not sought to subjugate Kona or Koolau divisions of Oahu. With his combined Armies of Maui, Molokai and Oahu, Kalau set sail for the island of Kauai with the three captive kings in his train. At this time Kukona was the sovereign of Kauai. Kalaunuiohua landed on the coast of Koloa, and in battle outside Ka'ie'ie'waho was met by Kukona and all the Kauai chiefs. A major battle ensued in which Kalaunuiohua's army was thoroughly defeated, himself taken a prisoner by Kukona. It was known as War of Kawelewele. Chief Kukona immediately set the three captive kings free to return to their homes but he kept Kalaunuiohua a close prisoner for several years. Negotiations were entered into with the Hawaii chiefs for the release of their king and Kalau was released, never to engage in warfare again. One old legend tells how he was not afraid of the priests or wizards[5] and how he ordered the killing of the witch Waʻahia, whose spirit then became united with the soul of Kalaunuiohua.[6]