Do American Samoans Desire Independence from the United States?

The question of whether American Samoans want independence from the United States is a complex one, rooted in historical, cultural, and economic factors. While some may argue for a break from the current territorial status, the evidence suggests that the majority of Samoans are content with their current relationship with the U.S.

The Economic and Opportunity Landscape

One key factor in determining the desire for independence is the economic and opportunity landscape. American Samoa, an unincorporated territory of the United States, benefits significantly from its relationship with the U.S. Despite not being super rich, the U.S. provides numerous opportunities that would be severely limited if it were to become independent. This includes access to federal funding, immigration benefits, and a broader array of job opportunities.

The U.S. ensures a stable and prosperous environment for American Samoans, fostering growth and development. The territory, with an estimated population of around 44,000 people, is less populated than even the least populous U.S. states, such as Wyoming. This means that even if American Samoa were to gain statehood, it would continue to be one of the least populated states in the U.S., leading to potential controversies regarding representation in the federal government.

Cultural and Historical Context

The cultural and historical context of American Samoa is also crucial in understanding the prevalent sentiment. American Samoa's populace has a deep connection to its traditional land and customs. The Fa'amatai (chieftaincy) system, an age-old noble system unique to American Samoa, continues to play a significant role in their social and political structure.

Military service has been an integral part of Samoan identity, particularly due to its historical and cultural significance. American Samoa has sent more soldiers per capita to the U.S. military than any other U.S. territory or state. This loyalty and patriotism underscore the strong bond between American Samoans and the U.S. government. The population's attitude towards Uncle Sam is overwhelmingly positive, reflecting a deep sense of pride and gratitude.

The Current Status Quo and Its Advantages

The current status as an unincorporated territory provides American Samoans with multiple benefits. They are U.S. nationals, with the right to enter and work in the United States without restrictions. They retain their traditional land rights and cultural practices, including the Fa'amatai system. Additionally, they receive federal funding and assistance, which supports their economic and social development.

For many American Samoans, the status quo offers a balanced approach. They enjoy the advantages of U.S. protection and support without the potential risks and challenges of full independence. Independence could undermine their cultural heritage and economic stability, particularly given the limited resources and local infrastructure in American Samoa.

Support for Maintaining the Current Relationship

Given my research and personal experiences, I am convinced that most American Samoans are satisfied with their current relationship with the United States. They see the U.S. as a vast repository of opportunities that would not be easily accessible if the territory were to become independent. Supporting the status quo allows them to enjoy the benefits of U.S. citizenship without the potential downsides of full independence.

The United States, with its vast resources and opportunities, offers a unique and valuable path for American Samoans. This relationship continues to be a win-win situation, providing a stable and prosperous future for the territory and its inhabitants. The strong historical, cultural, and economic ties between American Samoa and the United States make it highly unlikely that there will be a significant desire for independence among the majority of its population.

In conclusion, the evidence indicates that for the most part, American Samoans are content with their current relationship with the U.S. Independence would bring significant challenges and risks, making the current status quo the preferred option for the vast majority of the population.