Explorer

Flag of American Samoa

Oceania
1960
Flag of American Samoa
AS | 1:2

Symbolism

White represents purity and the coconut palm's blossoms. Red represents blood shed by Samoan warriors and the sacred earth. Blue represents freedom, loyalty, and the Pacific Ocean. The bald eagle clutching war clubs and a fly whisk reflects American sovereignty and Samoan chiefly authority.

History

Adopted on April 27, 1960, by order of the territory's first elected governor, Peter Tali Coleman. The design replaced earlier colonial flags and has remained unchanged since American Samoa became a U.S. territory.

Construction

A 10:19 ratio. A white triangle edged in red and blue pointing to the hoist, with a bald eagle holding a war club and fly whisk on the white field.

Color Meanings

white: Purity and the blossoms of the coconut palm
red: Courage, blood of warriors, and the sacred earth
blue: Freedom, loyalty, and the Pacific Ocean

Country Facts

Continent
Oceania
Landlocked
No
ISO 3166-1
AS

Flag Identification

Adopted
April 27, 1960
Proportions

1:2

12
De Jure Ratio
10:19

Influences

Samoan chiefly regalia (to'oto'o and fue)
United States national emblem

Related flags

Flag Protocol

  • The eagle emblem must appear in the lower hoist
  • Must not be flown above the United States flag on territory grounds

Practice

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