Lei Niho Palaoa and Digital Tools to Safeguard Against the Illicit Use of Ancient DNA

Abstract

The circumstances surrounding the acquisition, storage, and repatriation of potent relics by Western European nations through interactions with Polynesian royalty are both complex and controversial. For example, the acquisition of multiple artifacts following both King Kamehameha II (Liholiho) and Queen Kamāmalu’s deaths resulting from contracting measles while visiting London in 1824 remain in question. Currently, Liholiho’s cape remains on display in the Cambridge Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA). Whether the cape was associated with the body of the King (in life or death) or whether it was indeed brought to London as a diplomatic gift to coronate a meeting with George IV remains a mystery (Thomas 2016).