Seal of American Samoa

The Seal of American Samoa is based in traditional local design.

Seal of American Samoa
ArmigerAmerican Samoa
MottoSamoa Muamua Le Atua
"Samoa, God is First"

The fly switch (fue) represents wisdom and the staff (To'oto'o) represents authority. Both symbols are used by talking chiefs indicating their rank. The Tanoa (kava bowl) represents service to the chief. The tapa clothed background represents the artistry of the Samoan people. It also includes the date April 17, 1900, which was the date when the flag of American Samoa was officially adopted.[1]

On Flag Day April 17, 1973, the official seal of American Samoa, with the motto, Sāmoa Muamua Le Atua (English: "Samoa, Let God Be First"), was dedicated.[2]

The seal was introduced to the U.S. House of Representatives on March 2, 1985, by Delegate Fofó Iosefa Fiti Sunia. Fofo made the request in November 1981. The artwork was performed by the staff of the architect of the capitol.[3]

The Samoan motto Samoa Muamua Le Atua is translated “Samoa, God is First”.

References
  1. Grabowski, John F. (1992). U.S. Territories and Possessions (State Report Series). Chelsea House Pub. Page 47. ISBN 9780791010532.
  2. Shaffer, Robert J. (2000). American Samoa: 100 Years Under the United States Flag. Island Heritage. Page 193. ISBN 9780896103399.
  3. Sunia, Fofo I.F. (2009). A History of American Samoa. Amerika Samoa Humanities Council. Page 320. ISBN 9781573062992.


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