Ukulele History Blog

In-depth articles, research, and stories about the fascinating history of the ukulele

Exploring Ukulele's Rich History

Welcome to our blog, where we dive deeper into the historical, cultural, and social aspects of the ukulele. Our articles combine rigorous research with engaging storytelling to bring you a comprehensive understanding of this beloved instrument.

Featured Article

King Kalakaua: The Ukulele's Royal Champion
May 1, 2025 Historical Eras

King Kalakaua: The Ukulele's Royal Champion

How the "Merrie Monarch" helped elevate the ukulele from a recently introduced instrument to a symbol of Hawaiian cultural identity. This extensive exploration traces King David Kalakaua's personal love of music, his political motivation for promoting Hawaiian arts, and his lasting impact on ukulele's status in both royal court and commoner culture.

Through archival photographs, royal documents, and accounts from the King's contemporaries, we present a comprehensive picture of this critical period in ukulele history, examining how royal patronage shaped both the instrument's design and its cultural position.

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