The welcome ceremony of the Samoans. (nps photograph) The early independence of Western Samoa will be a milestone in Polynesian history. Professor J. W. Davidson of the Australian National University, Canberra, one-time administrator in Samoa, has specially written this authoritative account of Samoan leadership and political development for our journal. The second instalment will be published in our Christmas issue. LEADERSHIP IN WESTERN SAMOA by Prof. J W. Davidson

INTRODUCTION Whenever men act together, certain individuals occupy positions of particular importance. These are the men who advocate definite policies of action or serve as spokesmen for a group of followers, who take decisions on behalf of all and bear responsibility for what is done. They supply the element of leadership which is essential to group activity. In major public activities … whether political, economic, social, or religious … the sources of the leaders's authority are varied and complex. In part, they are derived from personal talent, temperament, and training. But in part, also, they are determined by tradition, which gives sanction to certain kinds of leadership and, in many cases, Chief's daughters lead parties bringing gifts from the villages to prominent visitors. The distinctive head-dress (tuiga) is emblematic of their rank and status. It is made of human hair. They are carrying hooked beheading knives. (nps photograph)