George Tupou I
From Freepedia
George Tupou I (1797-1893 (known until 1875) as Siaosi Taufa'ahau Tupou Maeakafaua), was the king of Tonga from November 18, 1845 until February 18, 1893.
His rule saw many changes in Tongan politics. During his reign, the last supreme ruler, or tui tonga, died, and this office was abolished upon the last tui tonga's death in 1865, making Siaosi the most powerful chief. In 1845,after the death of his uncle,he became the 19th and last Tu'i Kanokupolu. He established the Edict of Emancipation, which abolished serfdom in Tonga in 1862. On November 4, 1875, Tonga officially became a kingdom, and Siaosi changed his name to George Tupou I. (but referred to also as Siaosi Taufa'ahau Tupou). He was succeeded by George Tupou II.
During his war campaigne to unify all of Tonga, he almost stumbled into his doom at one of his battles at the Ha'apai Groups. He fell to the ground after he had taken several blows from several attackers. But luckily one of his fellow warriors was fighting close and came to his rescue. This brave warrior stood at Taufa'ahau's head while he was unconcious and fought all the enemies until Taufa'ahau became concious again. Later this warrior was named "Tu'u he Toka" meaning "Standing while the King is sleeping".
| Preceded by: Office Created | King of Tonga | Succeeded by: George Tupou II |
