One of the perplexing problems in anthropology is the early emergence of large-scale social organization that is often called the “archaic state.” This polity is characterized by distinct groups that include a professional ruling class headed by a divine king. Other characteristics include a state religion run by priests and the ability to hold territory seized by war. These kingdoms had more power than traditional chiefdoms, particularly in waging war, exacting tribute, and regulating manpower and labor. They first appear in places like Egypt and Mesopotamia. More recently, archaeologists have determined that archaic states emerged in Mesoamerica (the Maya) and South America (the Inca).
In this fascinating work, archaeologist Patrick Kirch of the University of California at Berkeley and formerly of the Bishop Museum in Honolulu makes the case for the existence of archaic states in the Hawaiian Islands at the time of European contact in 1778. By 1810 King Kamehameha I had united the islands under his rule. Integrating archaeology, linguistics, ethnology, and oral and written history, Kirch carefully lays out the evidence. His 40 years of research on the islands’ various prehistoric sites expands the historical record as told by Captain Cook’s crew and later European explorers. Native Hawaiian histories are another valuable source of information. Massive palaces, temples, and other public structures attest to the power of these kingdoms.
How Chiefs Became Kings is an excellent study of Hawaiian history and archaeology. It is also a compelling case study of the evolution of complex societies ruled by divine kings. Hawaiian residents as well as the many tourists will want to visit the many archaeological parks and museums to learn more of the islands remarkable history after reading this book.
