American Samoa Political Geography Quiz
Unique citizenship status, governance (10 questions).
American Samoa Political Geography Quiz: Quick Study Notes
American Samoa, an unincorporated territory of the United States, presents a unique case study in political geography. Its governance structure blends local traditions with federal oversight, while its residents hold a distinct U.S. national status, differing from birthright U.S. citizenship found in other territories. This quiz explores these fascinating political and administrative facets.
Key Concepts Explored
Residents are U.S. Nationals, not U.S. Citizens by birth, meaning they owe allegiance but lack certain federal rights (like voting in presidential elections) unless naturalized.
American Samoa is administered by the U.S. Department of the Interior without an organic act from Congress, giving it more local autonomy over its constitution.
Features an elected Governor and a bicameral legislature (the Fono) that handles local laws and customary matters.
Elects a non-voting delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives, reflecting its status outside the U.S. state system.
Key Takeaways
- American Samoa is the only U.S. territory where residents are U.S. Nationals by birth, not U.S. Citizens.
- This status means they cannot vote in federal elections (like presidential elections) while residing in the territory.
- The territory operates under a unique governance model as an “unincorporated and unorganized” U.S. territory.
- Local government includes an elected Governor and the Fono, blending modern democracy with traditional Samoan customs.
- The U.S. Department of the Interior manages the relationship between American Samoa and the federal government.
- Debates often arise regarding the potential for residents to gain birthright U.S. citizenship, or changes to the territory’s overall political status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the citizenship status of people born in American Samoa?
People born in American Samoa are U.S. Nationals. This means they owe allegiance to the United States but are not automatically U.S. citizens at birth. They must go through a naturalization process to become U.S. citizens.
Can American Samoans vote in U.S. presidential elections?
No, U.S. Nationals residing in American Samoa cannot vote in U.S. presidential elections. They can vote in primary elections, but to vote in the general presidential election, they would need to become naturalized U.S. citizens and establish residency in a U.S. state or the District of Columbia.
How is American Samoa governed?
American Samoa is an unincorporated and unorganized territory of the U.S. It has its own constitution, an elected Governor, and a bicameral legislature called the Fono, which handles local affairs. The U.S. Department of the Interior oversees its relationship with the federal government.
What is the Fono?
The Fono is American Samoa’s local bicameral legislature. It consists of a Senate, whose members are chosen by traditional county councils, and a House of Representatives, whose members are elected by popular vote.
Does American Samoa have representation in the U.S. Congress?
Yes, American Samoa elects one non-voting delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives. This delegate can participate in committee debates and vote in committees but cannot vote on the final passage of legislation on the House floor.
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