Keʻoloʻewa was a Native Hawaiian and a High Chief of Molokai (a Hawaiian island). Because of his father, Keʻoloʻewa is also known as Keʻoloʻewa-a-Kamauaua, since Keʻoloʻewa's parents were Lord Kamauaua ^[1]—the first known ruler of Moloka‘i—and his Chiefess consort, Lady Hinakeha. Hinakeha—likely named after Hina, the Moon goddess—and her spouse were Aliʻi, ancient Hawaiian aristocracy.

Kaupeʻepeʻe-nui-kauila was Keʻoloʻewa's older brother, whilst Keʻoloʻewa had two younger brothers; however, Keʻoloʻewa became his father's successor.

Keʻoloʻewa's wife was Lady Nuʻakea, a member of Maweke's family. Maweke was a chief and kahuna—wizard, so he was greatly admired because of the “ black magic”. Nuakea's brother was a prophet and friend of Keʻoloʻewa's older brother. Keʻoloʻewa and his wife had at least one child, called Kapau-a-Nuʻakea (“Kapau, child of Nuakea”). She succeeded Keʻoloʻewa, whilst Keʻoloʻewa's descendant was Hualani, Chiefess regnant of Molokai and Chiefess consort of Hawai‘i (the Big Island).

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