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Quaneka Dexter

Dawn Miller

American History

July 19, 2010

Samoan and United States Culture

Samoa compared to the U.S. is very different in many ways, but also alike in some. First

of all, in Samoa there are always big wedding celebrations, including food, dance, traditional

outfits and foods. Conversely in the U.S. people usually have big weddings as well, but often

make the choice to be hitched alone. In the U.S., people also have food, dance and traditional

outfits, such as the white dress for women, and the black tuxedo for men. One of many things

they have in common, is getting married in a religious church, and having their wedding

reception in another place.

Samoans get together and feast as a social event. Meanwhile the U.S. usually feasts only

with family members, unless it’s a holiday celebration. Samoans cook for one another; men and

women share the duties of cooking. Unless men enjoy cooking, women cook for their house

hold family members in the U.S. Samoans are very social with friends and family while eating.

U.S. people usually are social as well, but very many are not.

Samoan dance is a deep-rooted tradition. Meanwhile most U.S. people do not carry their

ancestors’ traditional dances. Samoans have a few dances they do as a group, to celebrate their

ancestors’ traditional ways. However U.S. dances change every decade, mostly from watching

BET/MTV music and television channels. One of the reasons why dance is so important to

Samoans is because whites tried to take it away, and that was one of many things Samoans

refused to give up. On the other hand, U.S. people are easily influenced, and have been changing
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their traditional dances for years. Also, disgracing American form of dance on television as well

as in clubs.

Samoa and U.S. culture have few things in common, but are almost completely different. Overall

Samoa seems more relaxing and full of spirit. Conversely U.S. seems very selfish and spoiled.