American Samoa

The Flag of American Samoa

The flag of American Samoa is a symbol of the territory’s rich cultural heritage and its connection with the United States. The flag features a red-edged white triangle pointing towards the hoist, superimposed on a dark blue field. Within the triangle, a bald eagle is depicted clutching a war club (uatogi) and a fly-whisk (fue). Each element of the flag holds significant meaning, reflecting the history and values of American Samoa.

American Samoa Flag Clip Art Images, Backgrounds, and Wallpapers

Free Download of the American Samoa Flag Image

To download an image of the American Samoa flag, right-click on the image and select “Save image as…” on a desktop or laptop. On a mobile device, press and hold on the image, then select “Download image” or “Save image” from the options that appear.

For Apple (iPhone/iPad):

• Press and hold the image.
• A menu will appear; tap “Add to Photos” or “Save Image.”

For Android:

• Press and hold the image.
• From the menu that appears, choose “Download image” or “Save image.”

This will save the image to your device’s photo gallery or downloads folder.

Design and Colors of the American Samoa Flag

The American Samoa flag features a design that is rich in symbolism and meaning:

• Triangle: A white isosceles triangle points towards the hoist side, representing the geographical shape of American Samoa’s main island.
• Red Edges: The triangle is bordered by red, symbolizing courage and is a traditional color in Samoan culture.
• Blue Field: The dark blue field represents freedom and the vast Pacific Ocean surrounding the islands.
• Bald Eagle: The bald eagle within the triangle symbolizes the United States and the protection it offers. The eagle holds two traditional Samoan symbols:
  • War Club (Uatogi): Represents the authority of the state and the government’s power.
  • Fly-whisk (Fue): Symbolizes wisdom in Samoan culture.
• Colors:
  • Red: (#C8102E) Symbolizes courage and is a traditional color in Samoan culture.
  • White: (#FFFFFF) Represents purity and peace.
  • Blue: (#0033A0) Signifies freedom and the Pacific Ocean.
  • Gold and Brown: Used in the depiction of the bald eagle and traditional symbols, representing the rich cultural heritage.

The Origins and Design of the American Samoa Flag

The flag of American Samoa has a rich history that reflects the territory’s journey and its relationship with the United States. The flag was officially adopted on April 17, 1960, and combines elements representing both American influence and Samoan culture.

The Birth of a Territorial Symbol

Before 1960, American Samoa used the flag of the United States as its official flag. In order to create a distinct identity, a local flag was designed to represent the unique cultural heritage of the Samoan people while acknowledging the territory’s ties to the United States. The flag was first raised on April 17, 1960, during the 60th anniversary of the first hoisting of the U.S. flag over American Samoa.

Evolution of the Flag’s Symbolism

The symbolism of the American Samoa flag reflects the territory’s cultural heritage and its connection with the United States:

• Red, White, and Blue Colors: Represent the colors of both the United States and Samoa, symbolizing the blend of cultures and shared values.
• Bald Eagle: Represents the United States and its guardianship over American Samoa.
• War Club (Uatogi) and Fly-whisk (Fue): Traditional Samoan symbols representing authority and wisdom, highlighting the importance of Samoan culture and traditions.

The Central Design Elements

The central design elements of the American Samoa flag include:

• White Triangle: Points towards the hoist side, symbolizing the islands of American Samoa.
• Bald Eagle Holding Traditional Symbols: The eagle’s inclusion signifies American influence, while the war club and fly-whisk represent traditional Samoan leadership and wisdom.

Adoption and Official Recognition

The American Samoa flag was officially adopted on April 17, 1960. The date holds significance as it marks the anniversary of the first raising of the United States flag over American Samoa in 1900. The adoption of the flag was an important step in establishing a distinct identity for the territory while honoring its relationship with the United States.

The Flag in Modern American Samoan Identity

Today, the American Samoa flag is a powerful symbol of territorial pride and unity. It is prominently displayed during territorial holidays, such as American Samoa Flag Day on April 17, which commemorates the flag’s adoption and the territory’s history. The flag is also honored in schools, government institutions, and by American Samoans living abroad, serving as a reminder of the territory’s cultural heritage and its ongoing relationship with the United States.

The Significance of the American Samoa Flag

The flag of American Samoa holds a deep and significant place in the hearts of its people, symbolizing the rich history, culture, and unity of the territory. Displaying the American Samoa flag is an act of patriotism and respect, and it is done according to specific rules and on designated days that hold special meaning for the territory.

When the Flag of American Samoa Can Be Displayed

The flag of American Samoa may be displayed on any day, but there are specific guidelines for when and how it should be presented. The flag should always be treated with the utmost respect, never touching the ground, and should be handled with care. It can be flown on public buildings, in schools, at government institutions, and during official ceremonies. Citizens are also encouraged to display the flag at their homes during territorial holidays and important commemorations.

Flag Days and Territorial Holidays

In American Samoa, there are several official flag days and territorial holidays when the flag is prominently displayed:

• April 17 – American Samoa Flag Day: This day commemorates the adoption of the American Samoa flag in 1960 and the first raising of the U.S. flag over the territory in 1900. Ceremonies and celebrations across the islands honor the flag and the territory’s heritage.
• United States Federal Holidays: As an unincorporated territory of the United States, American Samoa also observes U.S. federal holidays such as Independence Day (July 4), Memorial Day, and Veterans Day, during which both the American Samoa flag and the U.S. flag are displayed.

Love for the Flag and Patriotism

The American Samoa flag is not just a territorial symbol; it is a representation of the pride and love that American Samoans have for their heritage and culture. The flag’s design embodies the territory’s history, unity, and enduring spirit. American Samoans demonstrate their love for the flag and their patriotism in various ways. During territorial holidays, particularly on American Samoa Flag Day, the flag is everywhere—from homes and public spaces to clothing and decorations. Schools instill a sense of respect for the flag from a young age, often including flag ceremonies as part of the daily routine. These practices strengthen the emotional connection to this powerful symbol.

American Samoa Flag Emoji Codes

1. Unicode Code Points

• Unicode: U+1F1E6 U+1F1F8
• UTF-16: D83C DDE6 D83C DDF8

2. HTML Entities

• HTML Entity (Decimal): 🇦🇸
• HTML Entity (Hexadecimal): 🇦🇸

3. CSS

content: "\1F1E6\1F1F8";

4. JavaScript (JSON) & Java

// JavaScript Example
const americanSamoaFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE6\uD83C\uDDF8";

// Java Example
String americanSamoaFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE6\uD83C\uDDF8";

5. PHP & Ruby

// PHP Example
$americanSamoaFlag = "\u{1F1E6}\u{1F1F8}";

// Ruby Example
american_samoa_flag = "\u{1F1E6}\u{1F1F8}"

6. Perl

my $americanSamoaFlag = "\x{1F1E6}\x{1F1F8}";

7. Python

american_samoa_flag = "\U0001F1E6\U0001F1F8"

8. C#

string americanSamoaFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE6\uD83C\uDDF8";

9. Swift

let americanSamoaFlag = "\u{1F1E6}\u{1F1F8}"

10. Objective-C

NSString *americanSamoaFlag = @"\U0001F1E6\U0001F1F8";

11. JSON

{
  "americanSamoaFlag": "\uD83C\uDDE6\uD83C\uDDF8"
}

12. SQL

INSERT INTO table_name (column_name) VALUES ('\uD83C\uDDE6\uD83C\uDDF8');

13. Shell Scripting (Bash)

american_samoa_flag=$'\U1F1E6\U1F1F8'

14. Go (Golang)

americanSamoaFlag := "\U0001F1E6\U0001F1F8"

15. Kotlin

val americanSamoaFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE6\uD83C\uDDF8"

About American Samoa

Geography and Topography

Location and Geography

American Samoa is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the South Pacific Ocean, southeast of the independent nation of Samoa. It is part of the Samoan Islands chain and consists of five main islands and two coral atolls. The geography of American Samoa includes:

• Volcanic islands with rugged mountains
• Tropical rainforests
• Pristine coral reefs
• Beaches and coastal plains

American Samoa Map

Area and Population

American Samoa covers an area of approximately 199 square kilometers (76.8 square miles). As of 2023, the population is estimated to be around 55,000 people.

Demographics and Ethnic Composition

The population of American Samoa is predominantly of Samoan ethnicity, with a rich Polynesian culture. The ethnic composition includes:

• Native Samoans: approximately 89% of the population
• Asian (primarily Filipino and Korean): around 4%
• Other Pacific Islanders: about 2%
• Other ethnicities: roughly 5%

Name and History

Origin of the Name “American Samoa”

The name “American Samoa” distinguishes this territory from the neighboring independent nation of Samoa. The term “Samoa” originates from the indigenous people and their traditional name for the islands. The “American” prefix denotes the political relationship with the United States, established in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

History

The history of American Samoa is rich with Polynesian culture and tradition. Key historical events include:

• The settlement of the islands by Polynesian navigators around 1000 BCE
• First European contact in the 18th century
• The 1899 Tripartite Convention, in which Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States partitioned the Samoan Islands
• American Samoa becoming a territory of the United States in 1900
• Participation of American Samoans in World War II, with the islands serving as a strategic military base

Government and Politics

Capital

Pago Pago is the capital of American Samoa, located on the island of Tutuila. It is the main port and economic center of the territory.

Government and Politics

American Samoa is an unincorporated and unorganized territory of the United States. It operates under a constitution that was ratified in 1966. The government structure includes:

• An elected Governor
• A bicameral legislature called the Fono, consisting of a Senate and House of Representatives
• A judicial system that includes a High Court

American Samoa has a non-voting delegate in the United States House of Representatives.

Values and Culture

American Samoa places strong emphasis on traditional Samoan culture, known as “fa’a Samoa,” which includes respect for elders, community living, and adherence to customary practices.

Religion

Religion plays a significant role in Samoan society. The majority of the population is Christian, with denominations including:

• Congregational Christian Church in American Samoa
• Roman Catholicism
• Methodism
• Other Protestant denominations

Holidays

Major public holidays in American Samoa include:

• Flag Day on April 17
• Thanksgiving Day (observed similarly to the U.S.)
• White Sunday (Second Sunday in October), a day dedicated to children
• Christmas and Easter are widely celebrated

Demographics and Society

Language

The official languages of American Samoa are Samoan and English. Samoan is spoken by the majority of the population in daily life, while English is used in government and business.

Society and Sports

American Samoan society is closely knit, with strong emphasis on family and community. Sports play an important role, with American football being particularly popular. The territory has produced a number of NFL players relative to its population. Rugby and cricket are also popular sports.

Safety

American Samoa is generally considered safe for residents and visitors. The community-focused culture contributes to low crime rates. As with any destination, it is advisable to be aware of your surroundings.

Economy and Currency

Economy

The economy of American Samoa is relatively small and is based primarily on:

• Tuna canning and processing
• Fishing
• Agriculture, including taro, bananas, and breadfruit
• Government employment and services

Tourism is a growing sector, with visitors attracted to the islands’ natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Currency

The official currency of American Samoa is the U.S. Dollar (USD), symbolized by “$” and subdivided into 100 cents.

Culture and Arts

Culture and Arts

American Samoan culture is deeply rooted in Polynesian traditions. Key aspects include:

• Traditional music and dance, such as the “siva” dance
• Art forms like wood carving and tapa cloth making
• Oral storytelling and legends passed down through generations

Cuisine

Samoan cuisine is characterized by the use of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Key elements include:

• Palusami: Taro leaves baked in coconut cream
• Oka I’a: Raw fish marinated in lemon and coconut milk (similar to ceviche)
• Fa’apapa: A type of sweet coconut bread
• Fresh seafood and tropical fruits are staples

National Anthem

The national anthem of American Samoa is “Amerika Samoa.” The anthem reflects the territory’s pride in its culture and ties to the United States.

Infrastructure and Transportation

Transportation

Transportation in American Samoa includes:

• Pago Pago International Airport, which offers flights to and from Hawaii and neighboring islands
• A network of roads primarily on Tutuila Island
• Inter-island boats and ferries connecting the main islands

Time Zone

American Samoa operates on Samoa Standard Time (SST), which is UTC-11.

Web and Phone Code

American Samoa’s internet country code is “.as,” and its international dialing code is +1-684.

American Samoa: Things to See and Do

American Samoa offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Here are some of the top things to see and do:

Explore National Park of American Samoa

The National Park of American Samoa spans three islands: Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta‘ū. Visitors can enjoy:

• Hiking through tropical rainforests
• Observing unique wildlife, such as the Samoan fruit bat
• Pristine beaches and coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and diving

Visit Pago Pago Harbor

One of the world’s largest natural harbors, Pago Pago offers:

• Scenic views of the harbor and surrounding mountains
• Opportunity to learn about the local tuna industry
• Access to restaurants and local markets

Experience Local Culture

Immerse yourself in Samoan culture by:

• Attending a traditional “fiafia” night with music, dance, and fire knife performances
• Visiting villages to observe communal living and traditional fale (houses)
• Participating in local festivals and events

Enjoy Beautiful Beaches

American Samoa boasts unspoiled beaches such as:

• Ofu Beach: Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs
• Tafuna Beach: A popular spot for swimming and picnicking
• Aunu’u Island: Accessible by boat, offering serene beaches and a small village

Hike Mount Alava

For panoramic views, hike to the summit of Mount Alava:

• Trail passes through lush rainforest
• Offers views of Pago Pago Harbor and the surrounding islands
• A chance to see native bird species

Visit Historical Sites

Learn about the history of American Samoa at sites like:

• Blunts Point Battery: A World War II-era fortification
• Jean P. Haydon Museum: Showcases Samoan artifacts and history

Dive and Snorkel

Explore the underwater world:

• Coral reefs teeming with marine life
• Opportunities to see sea turtles, colorful fish, and unique coral formations
• Dive sites suitable for both beginners and experienced divers

Sample Local Cuisine

Don’t miss the chance to try traditional foods at local markets and restaurants.

Participate in Cultural Workshops

Engage with the local community:

• Learn traditional weaving or wood carving
• Attend language classes to learn basic Samoan phrases