1962 Independence
When Western Samoa finally gained its independence in 1962, Tupua Tamasese Meaole, brother of the Mau movement leader, became its first co-head of state with Malietoa Tanumafili II.
Fiame Mata'afa Faumuina Mulinu’u II (1921–1975), the son of another high chief and Mau leader Mata'afa Faumuina Fiame Mulinu'u I, became the first Prime Minister of Samoa.
In July 1997, the Samoa Constitution was amended to change the country's name to Samoa, and officially the Independent State of Samoa.
Read more about this topic: Mau Movement
Famous quotes containing the word independence:
“I saw the man my friend ... wants pardoned, Thomas Flinton. He is a bright, good-looking fellow.... Of his innocence all are confident. The governor strikes me as a man seeking popularity, who lacks the independence and manhood to do right at the risk of losing popularity. Afraid of what will be said. He is prejudiced against the Irish and Democrats.”
—Rutherford Birchard Hayes (1822–1893)