http://www.reeis.usda.gov/web/areera...ombined.AS.pdf
"The minimum wage set in October 1998, ranges from $2.57 for
miscellaneous activities to $3.87 for shipping and transportation. In 1996, 13,949 people were
employed with over 5,000 being employed by the Government of American Samoa and 4,542 by
the two canneries. The unemployment rate is 5.2. 61% of the population lives at or below the
poverty line. "
"While the canneries provide jobs, the jobs are not considered desirable to many people.
Most of those persons employed in the entry level positions at the canneries are (Western)
Samoan nationals. "
"Samoan is the first language of the vast majority of the population and is widely spoken.
Business and education are conducted in the English language, and most people speak English.
The Samoan culture is still intact in spite of foreign influence. The society is communal and
organized into extended family units (aiga) headed by a chief (matai). Approximately 80% of
the land is communal land. The use of this land is determined by the matai who decides where
houses and farms are placed as well as who has access to them. "
"The traditional Samoan fale or house (open room with no windows or doors) is being
replaced by more western style housing. Families tend to be larger than in the States and
extended family members live together. Families and family members tend to be somewhat
mobile. (Western) Samoans move to American Samoa for better jobs, and American Samoans
move to the States for better jobs. Children are sometimes sent to live with relatives in the states
to receive a better education or are sent from the states to American Samoa to learn about their
culture. Children are sent in both directions to resolve behavior problems. There is speculation
that the street-wise gang members returning to Tutuila are having a negative influence on those
children who have never left the island and who know nothing other then life on a small island
under strong village control. The military is the occupation of choice for many high school
graduates. Many young people see the service as their chance to “get off the Rock”. There are a
large number of American Samoans serving in the military, and many retired military return to
the islands after completing their 20 years of service. "
Basically, it's a shithole.
American Samoa
