American Samoa

May 2

The flag of American Samoa is a symbol of the unincorporated U.S. territory located in the South Pacific. Officially adopted on April 24, 1960, the design of the flag reflects both the unique cultural heritage of American Samoa and its connection to the United States.

The flag of American Samoa features a dark blue field with a white isosceles triangle extending from the hoist side toward the fly. The triangle is bordered in red, creating a striking visual effect. Within the triangle, an American bald eagle is prominently displayed, clutching a war club (fue) and a fly-whisk (to’oto’o) in its talons. These elements are emblematic of the island's culture and governance.

The bald eagle symbolizes the United States and its protection over American Samoa. The inclusion of the eagle signifies the territory's political ties with the U.S., which have existed since 1900 when the islands became a U.S. territory. The war club and fly-whisk are traditional Samoan symbols of authority, representing the local customs and leadership of the Samoan people. Together, these symbols underscore the balance between American sovereignty and Samoan cultural identity. The flag’s colors—red, white, and blue—are shared with the flag of the United States, further highlighting the bond between the two entities. Blue represents freedom and loyalty, while white signifies purity and peace. Red symbolizes courage and sacrifice, values deeply ingrained in both American and Samoan traditions.

Before the adoption of the current flag, American Samoa used the flag of the United States as its sole representation. However, as American Samoa's unique identity and cultural pride grew, local leaders sought a distinct flag that would honour both their Samoan heritage and their relationship with the U.S. The design of the flag was created under the guidance of local leaders and American officials, ensuring that it reflected the dual aspects of American Samoa’s identity. It was officially adopted in 1960, coinciding with the territory's first constitution, which formalized self-governance under U.S. administration.

The flag is more than a political symbol; it is a reflection of the cultural pride of the Samoan people. The war club and fly-whisk are deeply rooted in Samoan traditions, often associated with chiefs and the matai (leaders) of Samoan villages. By including these items, the flag pays homage to the rich history and customs of the Samoan people.