Since WWII, American Samoa has developed a modern, self-governing political system. The government is divided into three branches, similar to the United States: the executive branch is led by the governor and lieutenant governor; the legislative branch is led by the local legislature, consisting of the House of Representatives, who are elected by popular vote, and the Senate, who are represented by the village matai; the judicial branch is part of the US judicial system. American Samoa has a non-voting representative elected to the US Congress.
Half of the population are Christian Congregational. There are also Roman Catholics, Latter Day Saints and Protestants, among others.
Social conventions:Traditional Samoan society is still bound by very strict customs and, despite the younger generation's dissatisfaction with the old values, they are very much adhered to. The government issues an official list of behaviour codes for both Samoas. Skimpy shorts or other revealing clothes should be avoided except when swimming or climbing coconut palms, although disapproval of shorts, if they are not too short, is on the wane.
Samoan social behaviour conforms to strict and rather complicated rituals, to which the visitor will probably be introduced on arrival, and which should be respected.
In the early evening hours, even if swimming offshore, be sure to avoid making any noise that could interrupt the Samoans' prayer period. Usually three gongs are sounded. The first is the signal to return to the house, the second is for prayer and the third sounds the all-clear. In some villages, swimming and fishing are forbidden on Sunday.
A visitor who happens to be invited to stay in a Samoan household should be mindful of American Samoan customs. On leaving, making a gift, a mea alofa (literally a 'thing of love') of shirts, belts or dress-length fabrics is most appreciated. Samoans are extremely hospitable and visitors may receive more than one invitation to stay with neighbours. However, it is inappropriate to leave your first hosts before a pre-arranged date.
Samoan, but many islanders speak English.
