Alexander 'Iolani, known as Kamehameha IV, was born on February 9, 1834, in Honolulu, Oʻahu. As the grandson of Kamehameha the Great and adopted heir of Kamehameha III, he was educated at the Royal School before traveling abroad to broaden his worldview. At nearly 21, he ascended the throne on January 11, 1855. Described by contemporaries as intelligent, charismatic, and physically striking, Kamehameha IV was deeply concerned about the growing influence of the United States in Hawaiʻi. To counterbalance this, he sought stronger ties with Britain and worked to reduce the kingdom’s dependence on American interests. His reign was also marked by a commitment to public health, as he and his wife, Queen Emma, personally raised funds to establish Queen’s Hospital, which remains a vital institution in Hawaiʻi today.

In 1856, Kamehameha IV married Emma Rooke, a high-ranking chiefess and descendant of Kamehameha I. Their union produced one son, Prince Albert, whose tragic death in 1862 deeply affected the king. Following a brief illness that began after a disciplinary incident involving cold water, the young prince died at just four years old. Devastated by grief and guilt, Kamehameha IV withdrew from public life and became increasingly reclusive. His health deteriorated due to nerve disorders and asthma, and he died unexpectedly on November 30, 1863, at the age of 29. Though his reign was brief, Kamehameha IV left a lasting legacy through his efforts to protect Hawaiian sovereignty and improve the welfare of his people.