For this update, we are still in Apia Samoa exploring and waiting for just the right weather window to proceed to Tonga. We have been enjoying access to a car, thanks to Arthur, to see the sites all around the island – waterfalls, caves, trenches, and more. Soon our focus will turn to preparation for departure, and there is much to do on that front. That is in the future, we try hard to be in the present, so I thought it was a good time to learn a little more about Samoa. I spent some time reading about the history of this amazing place. Here is what I learned.

The Quick History of Samoa

Samoa is a beautiful group of islands in the South Pacific with a history that’s as colorful as its scenery. People first settled here around 3,500 years ago, coming from places like Tonga and Fiji. These early settlers were amazing navigators and boatbuilders, and they created a culture that’s deeply connected to the ocean.

Early Settlements and Culture

The first people to live in Samoa arrived between 2,900 and 3,500 years ago. They brought with them their skills in farming and sailing. Samoan society was all about village life, with chiefs (called matai) leading the way. They grew crops like yams, taro, breadfruit, bananas, sugarcane, and coconuts. This early history of the region is fascinating.

European Contact and Colonization

European explorers showed up in the early 1700s. In 1768, a French explorer named Louis-Antoine de Bougainville called the islands the Navigator Islands. Missionaries came in the 1800s and introduced Christianity, which changed a lot of things. Eventually, foreign powers started fighting over the islands, and they were split into German Samoa and American Samoa in the late 1800s.

Path to Independence

After World War I, New Zealand took over what used to be German Samoa and called it the Western Samoa Trust Territory. Samoa became the first Pacific Island nation to gain independence in 1962, and in 1997, it was renamed simply “Samoa.” Today, Samoa is a proud and independent country with a rich cultural heritage and a unique history.

Modern Samoa

Today, Samoa is a mix of old traditions and modern influences. The people still celebrate their culture with traditional ceremonies, dance, and music. If you visit Samoa, you can explore historical sites, enjoy the natural beauty, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals. We think understanding a locations history is essential to fully appreciate its modern-day marvels.

Final Thoughts

The Samoan people are truly wonderful. We had the opportunity to experience this many times in both American Samoa and Samoa. Whether it was a friendly conversation on the bus, directions, a ride to a trailhead, or help with a flat tire – always friendly – always interested – always smiling. We also learned that you are six times more likely to play in the NFL if you are Samoan! In American Samoa, they have the highest military enlistment rate, per capita, than any other state or US territory!