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Pōmare V

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Pōmare V was the last monarch to rule Tahiti.

Legion Honneur Officier ribbon
Legion Honneur Officier ribbon

He led the island nation during a time of big changes. His reign was short but very important for history. He was the son of Queen Pōmare IV. This meant he was part of a royal family line. He lived through many shifts in how his land was run. His life connects the old ways of Tahiti to new rules.

His life followed a specific path of duty. He was born as Teri'i Tari'a Te-rā-tane on 3 November 1839. In 1855, he became the Crown Prince. This happened because his older brother died on 13 May 1855. Later, his mother passed away on 17 September 1877. After her death, he became the king of Tahiti. His coronation ceremony took place in Pape'ete on 24 September 1877.

Family was a major part of his life and duties. He married two different women during his time as a leader. His first wife was a princess named Te-mā-ri'i-Ma'i-hara Te-uhe-a-Te-uru-ra'i. They married on 11 November 1857 but divorced in 1861. His second wife was Joanna Marau-Ta'aroa Te-pa'u Salmon. They married in Pape'ete on 28 January 1875.

Ordre du Merite agricole Officier ribbon
Ordre du Merite agricole Officier ribbon

Pōmare V had one son and two daughters.

In 1880, a major change happened for the whole country. Pōmare V had to undergo a forced abdication. This means he was made to give up his power. On 29 June 1880, he gave Tahiti and its dependencies to France. The French government gave him a pension for his service.

Legion Honneur Officier ribbon
Legion Honneur Officier ribbon

He also received two special French honors. These were Officer of the Legion of Honour and Officer of the Order of Agricultural Merit. Both honors were given on 9 November 1880.

We can still remember him through the places he lived. Pōmare V died on 12 June 1891. He passed away at the Royal Palace in Pape'ete.

Ordre du Merite agricole Officier ribbon
Ordre du Merite agricole Officier ribbon

He was laid to rest in a special place. His final resting place is the Tomb of the King. This tomb is located at Utu'ai'ai in 'Arue. His story shows how island nations changed in the 19th century. He remains a key figure in the history of Oceania.

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