Kekuaokalani, a cousin of Liholiho, put himself at the head of the adherents of the ancient faith, but was defeated and slain in the battle of Kuamoo, fought about December 20th, 1819.
THE ARRIVAL OF THE AMERICAN MISSIONARIES.
The pioneer company of American missionaries to these Islands arrived at Kailua, April 4th, 1820. They soon reduced the language to writing and commenced printing the first book in January, 1822. They found in the Hawaiians an amiable and highly receptive race, eager for knowledge and easily influenced for good or evil. The principal opposition to reform was made by foreigners.
THE WHALING FLEET.
The first whale ship called at Honolulu in 1820, and was soon followed by many others. Their number soon increased to 100 every year, and the furnishing of supplies for them became the chief resource of the Islands, as the sandal-wood became exhausted.
DEATH OF LIHOLIHO.
The young king, accompanied by his wife and six chiefs, embarked for England, November 27, 1823, on an English whale ship. On their arrival in London they received the utmost hospitality and courtesy, but in a few weeks the whole party was attacked by the measles, of which the king and queen both died.
REBELLION ON KAUAI.
Meanwhile, on the death of Kaumualii, a rebellion broke out in Kauai, led by his son, Humehume. A desperate assault was made on the fort at Waimea, which was repulsed with loss. Over 1,000 warriors were sent down from Oahu and Maui, and a battle was fought near Hanapepe, August 18th, 1824, in which the rebels were routed.