What is the culture in Samoa?

The traditional culture of Samoa is a communal way of life based on Fa’a Samoa, the unique socio-political culture. In Samoan culture, most activities are done together. The traditional living quarters, or fale (houses), contain no walls and up to 20 people may sleep on the ground in the same fale.

What is the social structure of Samoa?

Samoan society is based on a collectivist system of governance known as ‘fa’a Matai’. In this system, society is organised by extended families (aiga), with each family having its own ‘Matai’ (‘chief’ or ‘leader’) titles that are connected to certain districts, villages and plots of family land.

What is the most important part of Samoan culture?

The central element in Samoan culture is the aiga (family). Within the family, giving and receiving tautua (service), fa’aaloalo (respect) and alofa (love) are crucial in Samoan social relations.

Where is the Samoan culture from?

Polynesia
According to legend, Samoa is known as the “Cradle of Polynesia” because Savai’i island is said to be Hawaiki, the Polynesian homeland. Samoan culture is undoubtedly central to Polynesian life, and its styles of music, dance, and visual art have gained renown throughout the Pacific islands and the world.

How old is Samoan culture?

3000 years old
The unique and intriguing Samoan culture we experience today is actually more than 3000 years old, and has been preserved by the isolation of the tiny island on which it was born.

What is Samoa most known for?

According to legend, Samoa is known as the “Cradle of Polynesia” because Savai’i island is said to be Hawaiki, the Polynesian homeland. Samoan culture is undoubtedly central to Polynesian life, and its styles of music, dance, and visual art have gained renown throughout the Pacific islands and the world.

Why is family so important in Samoan culture?

For most Samoans, the family is of the utmost importance. It is believed that each person is a representative of their family and thus should act in such a way that honours all family members. Each is expected to contribute to the family’s cumulative success.

What are some traditions in Samoa?

Highlights include traditional Siva dancing, fire knife dancing, tattooing and carving demonstrations, Umu demonstrations (underground Samoan oven cooking), the annual Flower Float Parade, the popular Fautasi race (iconic Samoan boat race), and the crowning of Miss Samoa.

What are some Samoan values?

Among the preeminent values of Fa’a Samoa are respect for the environment, a close-knit family and community structure, and adherence to other traditional values. Interestingly, Christian values brought to the island in the 19th century have been seamlessly integrated into Fa’a Samoa.