History
Before Europeans arrived in the 18th century, Samoa did not use any flags. The islands were contested by Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States. the three countries eventually agreed to divide Samoa amongst themselves during the Tripartite Convention in 1899. The current flag was officially adopted in 1960 and is only the second design that has ever been used within the territory. The flag was designed as part of a 1959 high school competition, which was won by 19 year old Uinifareti Rapi Sotoa. It was this design that was then sent to a group of local leaders from the Samoan population and US Army Institute of Heraldry, and has not been changed at all since being adopted in 1960.
Meaning
The flag is blue, white and edged in red. It bears an American eagle holding the icons of powers of Samoan chiefs, a 'uatogi' (war-club), and the symbol of wisdom, the 'fue' (ritual stick). The colors of the flag are both Samoan and American, together with the American eagle holding traditional Samoan emblems, represents the unity and friendship between the two cultures.
Key facts
- Capital city: Pago Pago
- Population: 45,035
- Main Religion: Christianity
- Languages: English, Samoan
- Currencies: United States dollar (USD)
- Country code:
AS - Area: 199 km2
- Continent: Oceania, Polynesia
- Latitude: -14.33, Longitude: -170
- Dialling code: +1684
- Top level domain:
.as
