Know Your History: Samoa’s Journey to Independence

Samoa, a nation with a rich cultural heritage and resilient spirit like those of its Pacific brothers and sister countries, has a history marked by periods of foreign influence and colonisation. The journey to independence is a story of struggle, resilience, and eventual triumph. As we prepare to celebrate Samoa’s 62nd year of Independence on 1st June 2024, let us reflect on how far we have come.

The Colonial Era Begins

1722: The arrival of Europeans marked the beginning of a new era for Samoa. The islands were first sighted by Dutch explorer Jacob Roggeveen.

1768: French explorer Bougainville arrived, naming Samoa the "Navigators Islands" due to the inhabitants' exceptional seafaring skills.

1830: Christianity was introduced to Samoa by missionaries John Williams and Charles Barff from the London Missionary Society, landing in Savaii.

1847: Great Britain established a consular office in Apia, signalling increased foreign interest.

1861: Germany followed suit, establishing their own consular office, further entrenching European influence.

Struggles for Sovereignty

1879: Germany secured the right to establish a naval station in Samoa, further tightening its grip on the islands.

1889: A destructive cyclone, the Apia cyclone, sank six warships from the three powers vying for control (Germany, Britain, and the United States), temporarily halting their ambitions.

1899: Samoa was divided among the colonial powers. Germany took control of Western Samoa (Upolu and Savaii), while the United States took American Samoa (Tutuila and Manu'a). Britain withdrew in exchange for other Pacific territories.

1900: The German flag was hoisted in Upolu, and Dr Wilhelm Solf was appointed the first governor. Solf's administration aimed to control and reshape Samoan leadership and customs, leading to local discontent.

The Rise of the Mau Movement

1903: The Mau a Pule movement was established by Namulau’ulu Lauaki Mamoe in response to German rule. This movement was an early form of resistance advocating for Samoan self-governance.

1914: New Zealand troops occupied Samoa during World War I, taking control from Germany without conflict.

1918: The Spanish influenza epidemic, brought by a New Zealand ship, devastated Samoa, killing approximately 22% of the population. This tragedy intensified anti-colonial sentiments and galvanised the independence movement.

1929: Known as Black Saturday, a peaceful Mau protest in Apia was met with violence from New Zealand police, resulting in the deaths of several Samoan leaders, including Chief Tamasese Lealofi III. His dying plea for peace strengthened the resolve of the Samoan people.

Steps Towards Independence

1954-1960: Constitutional conventions and reorganisations led to the establishment of a new Executive Council and a restructured Legislative Assembly, laying the groundwork for self-governance.

1961: In a UN-sponsored plebiscite, adult Samoans overwhelmingly voted

Independence Achieved

1962: On 1st January, Western Samoa officially gained independence, becoming the first Pacific island nation to do so. Celebrations were held in June due to the cyclone season, establishing the tradition of commemorating Independence Day on 1st June each year. Samoa's motto, "Fa’avae i Le Atua Samoa" (Samoa is founded on God), was adopted, symbolising the nation's cultural and spiritual values.

Samoa's path to independence is a testament to the resilience and unity of its people. As we remember this journey on Independence Day, we honour the struggles and sacrifices that paved the way for a free and sovereign Samoa.

Samoa's journey to independence is a remarkable story of resilience, determination, and unity. From the early days of European contact to the turbulent periods of colonial rule under Germany and New Zealand, the Samoan people consistently demonstrated their strength and commitment to sovereignty. The rise of the Mau movement and the tragic events of Black Saturday exemplify the profound sacrifices made for freedom. The eventual triumph of independence on 1st January 1962, celebrated annually on 1st June, marked a new chapter in Samoa's history, underpinned by the nation's enduring motto, "Fa’avae i Le Atua Samoa" (Samoa is founded on God).

Reflecting on how far we have come, it is essential to recognise and honour the efforts of those who fought for our independence. Their legacy is a reminder of our shared history and the values that define us as a nation. As we celebrate this Independence Day, let us also take the time to delve deeper into our past, to understand and appreciate the rich tapestry of events that have shaped our identity.

I encourage every Samoan to continue researching and exploring our history. By doing so, we not only pay tribute to our ancestors but also empower ourselves with knowledge that can guide us into the future. Our history is not just a record of events but a source of inspiration and strength. Let us embrace it, learn from it, and use it to build a brighter, more united Samoa.