Is American Samoa a self governing country?

American Samoa is listed among seventeen "non-self-governing territories" but is a member of several intergovernmental organizations, including the Pacific Community, Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), and International Olympic Committee (IOC).

When did American Samoa become a country?

The eastern island-group became a territory of the United States (the Tutuila Islands in 1900 and officially Manu'a in 1904) and was known as American Samoa. The western islands, by far the greater landmass, became German Samoa.

Where is Samoa located?

Samoa lies south of the equator, about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand, in the Polynesian region of the Pacific Ocean. The total land area is 2,842 km 2 (1,097 sq mi), [ 82 ] consisting of the two large islands of Upolu and Savaiʻi (which together account for 99% of the total land area) and eight small islets. The islets are: [ 83 ]

Which country is known as Western Samoa?

The country was known as Western Samoa until 1997. Its capital and main commercial centre is Apia, on the island of Upolu. Forty-seven seats are reserved for ethnic Samoans; women must constitute at least 10 percent of the assembly.

Why is Samoa called the cradle of Polynesia?

They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors. Samoa, country in the central South Pacific Ocean, among the westernmost of the island countries of Polynesia. According to legend, Samoa is known as the “Cradle of Polynesia” because Savai‘i island is said to be Hawaiki, the Polynesian homeland.

When was American Samoa first discovered?

Inhabited by Polynesians since prehistory, American Samoa was first contacted by Europeans in the 18th century. The islands attracted missionaries, explorers, and mariners, particularly to the highly protected natural harbor of Pago Pago.