About Flag of American Samoa
On April 24, 1960, the day the first constitution of American Samoa took effect, the national flag of the US territory of American Samoa was formally adopted. Additionally, today was the 60th anniversary of Samoa’s first raising of the American flag.
The American Samoa flag features a blue background with a white triangle in the centre. An American bald eagle soaring towards the hoist side is depicted in the white triangle. The link between the country and the United States is symbolised by the eagle. A fly whisk (fue) and a war club (uatogi), two ancient emblems of authority among Samoan chiefs, are also held in the eagle’s claws. The former reflects the knowledge of Samoa’s traditional leaders, while the latter stands for their might.
Historical Background
American Samoa is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the South Pacific Ocean. The American Samoa flag was officially adopted on April 27, 1960, and has since become an important symbol of the territory’s affiliation with the United States.
| Official Name: | Territory of American Samoa |
| Proportion: | 1:2 |
| Adopted on: | April 24, 1960 |
| Location of the country: | Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about half way between Hawaii and New Zealand |
| Capital City: | Pago Pago |
| Major Cities: | Fagatogo, Tafuna, Leone |
| Area: | 76.83 square miles |
| Population: | 55,519 |
| Currency: | US dollar (USD) |
| Official Languages: | English, Samoan |
| National Anthem: | The Star-Spangled Banner, Amerika Samoa |
| National symbol(s): | Â a fue (coconut fiber fly whisk; representing wisdom) crossed with a to’oto’o (staff; representing authority) |
| National colors: | red, white, blue |
| National Anthem: | Name: “Amerika Samoa” (American Samoa) Lyrics/Music: Mariota Tiumalu TUIASOSOPO/Napoleon Andrew TUITELELEAPAGA |
Facts about American Samoa flag |
| Country | American Samoa |
|---|---|
| Designed by | NA |
| Adopted | 27. April 1960 |
| Revision | NA |
| Design and Colors | A red-edged white triangle pointing towards the hoist charged with a bald eagle clutching a war club and fly-whisk. The upper and lower triangles are dark blue. |
| Size Ratio | 1:2 |
Design and Colors
The American Samoa flag features a blue field with a white canton in the upper hoist-side corner. Centered within the canton is a bald eagle, a national symbol of the United States, clutching a war club and fly whisk, both traditional Samoan symbols. Below the eagle is a stylized version of the American Samoa coat of arms.
Symbolism of the American Samoa Flag
The American Samoa flag incorporates significant symbols that represent both the American and Samoan cultures. The bald eagle represents the United States and its protection of American Samoa. The war club and fly whisk symbolize the traditional authority and protection of the American Samoan people. The coat of arms showcases various elements, such as a coconut tree, native flora, and a traditional Samoan canoe.
Usage and Protocol
The American Samoa flag is flown proudly throughout the territory on various occasions, including official ceremonies, holidays, and cultural events. It is raised on government buildings, schools, private residences, and other public spaces. The flag should be treated with respect and should not touch the ground or be flown in a damaged condition.
Cultural Significance
The American Samoa flag holds significant cultural importance for the people of American Samoa. It represents the unique blend of American and Samoan cultures, reflecting the territory’s historical and ongoing relationship with the United States. The flag serves as a unifying symbol, fostering a sense of pride, belonging, and cultural identity among the American Samoan community. More Info
FAQs
Q1: What does the bald eagle on the American Samoa flag represent?
The bald eagle represents the United States and its protection of American Samoa.
Q2: What do the war club and fly whisk symbolize on the flag?
The war club and fly whisk are traditional Samoan symbols that represent the authority and protection of the American Samoan people.
Q3: What is depicted in the coat of arms on the American Samoa flag?
The coat of arms showcases elements such as a coconut tree, native flora, and a traditional Samoan canoe.
Q4: Can the American Samoa flag be flown alongside the United States flag?
Yes, the American Samoa flag can be flown alongside the United States flag as a symbol of the territory’s affiliation with the United States.
Q5: How is the American Samoa flag celebrated in the territory?
The American Samoa flag is celebrated during official ceremonies, holidays, and cultural events, where it is raised and honored with pride and respect.