Ka'iulani

It was many years ago when I first heard the story of the princess Kai'ulani, born in 1875 and second in line to the Hawaiian throne. It was definitely a tale that captured the imagination; this lovely young Scottish-Hawaiian princess soaking in the beauty of her country and making friends with Robert Louis Stevenson. She became the subject of one of his poems, fittingly referred to as "the island rose."

At thirteen years old, she was taken from her native land and sent to school in England, where she remained for four years until the overthrow of the Hawaiian government. This new regime was determined to become a part of the United States.

At the still-tender age of seventeen, Ka'iulani, shy but determined, set out for a tour of America, where she delivered impassioned speeches and spoke for her people and country.

"Seventy years ago Christian America sent over Christian men and women to give religion and civilization to Hawaiʻi. Today, three of the sons of those missionaries are at your capitol asking you to undo their father’s work. Who sent them? Who gave them the authority to break the Constitution which they swore they would uphold? Today, I, a poor weak girl with not one of my people with me and all these ‘Hawaiian’ statesmen against me, have strength to stand up for the rights of my people. Even now I can hear their wail in my heart and it gives me strength and courage and I am strong - strong in the faith of God, strong in the knowledge that I am right, strong in the strength of seventy million people who in this free land will hear my cry and will refuse to let their flag cover dishonor to mine!"

It's really too bad that such a beautiful speech did not have a happy ending. Ka'iulani's country was never returned to her. She died at the age of only 23, some say "of a broken heart."

If you are wondering why I have just splattered you with a bunch of history, there are three reasons.

1. Princess Ka'iulani's story remains beautiful and inspiring for young women today.
2. This sweet, accomplished girl was impeccably well dressed, as befits a princess. As one of the goals of AmandaBeth is to celebrate the fashions of the past, I believe she should get some exposure.
3. Just yesterday, I heard about a new film that is going to be released in the US on the 15th...

I watched the trailer and was blown away by the lovely young actress who plays Ka'iulani and, of course, the costumes. I can't say if they are entirely authentic or not - it's been a while since I studied 19th century fashion - but they are absolutely gorgeous.

Of course, the film adds a romance that didn't really take place and there may be other historical liberties taken as well (I hear the film has had mixed reviews). It remains to be seen whether it is well crafted or poorly executed (the whole love vs. duty cliche has me a a bit skeptical ;). Regardless, I would like to see the film. I probably won't dish out money for a ticket (I also believe the number of theaters is rather limited) but I'll be looking forward to a DVD release anyway. These costumes are just too yummy!

Each of these publicity stills are just breathtakingly beautiful. I think the gold gown is my favorite. :) Which one is yours? And what are your thoughts on the upcoming film?

You can check out the official site for the film HERE, and view more images on the Facebook Page. If you'd like to know more about the real story of Princess Ka'iulani, I suggest you check out these two great reads. The Diane Stanley picture book is a classic, and the other is a more in-depth biography, complete with lots of photos.

       

I hope everyone has a lovely week! God bless you all.