kids encyclopedia robot

A. P. Lutali facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
A. P. Lutali
AP Lutali.jpg
2nd & 4th Governor of American Samoa
In office
January 3, 1993 – January 3, 1997
Lieutenant Tauese Sunia
Preceded by Peter Tali Coleman
Succeeded by Tauese Sunia
In office
January 3, 1985 – January 2, 1989
Lieutenant Eni Faleomavaega
Preceded by Peter Tali Coleman
Succeeded by Peter Tali Coleman
Delegate at-large of American Samoa
In office
January 3, 1975 – January 3, 1979
Preceded by A. U. Fuimaono
Succeeded by Fofō Sunia
Personal details
Born
Aifili Paulo Lutali

(1919-12-24)December 24, 1919
Aunu'u, American Samoa, U.S.
Died August 1, 2002(2002-08-01) (aged 82)
Pago Pago, American Samoa, U.S.
Political party Democratic
Spouse
Susana Leiato Lutali
(m. 1954)
Children 9
Education University of Hawaii, Manoa

Aifili Paulo Lutali (born December 24, 1919 – died August 1, 2002) was an important leader in American Samoa. He served as the governor of American Samoa two times. His first term was from 1985 to 1989, and his second was from 1993 to 1997.

Lutali also helped start the Democratic Party in American Samoa. He had a long career working in the government and as a judge. He cared a lot about protecting nature and old buildings in American Samoa. He worked to keep the territory's natural beauty and important historical places safe.

Learning and Leadership

Early Career and Education

From 1951 to 1954, Lutali worked as a supervisor for public schools. He helped create the Samoan Culture Curriculum Committee. This group focused on teaching students about Samoan traditions. He was also on the Board of Education for several years.

In 1974, he became the chairman of the first American Samoa Board of Higher Education. This board helped create the American Samoa Community College. This college gave local students a chance to get a higher education close to home. Lutali also became a judge in the High Court of American Samoa in 1972. He later became the chief judge for cases about land and titles.

Serving the People

Lutali began his political career in 1955. He was elected to the American Samoa House of Representatives. He even served as the speaker (leader) of the House from 1955 to 1958.

Later, from 1975 to 1979, he was American Samoa's Delegate to Congress. This meant he represented American Samoa in the U.S. Congress. He also served in the American Samoa Senate, becoming its president in 1977.

Governor of American Samoa

Lutali was first elected governor of American Samoa in 1984. During his time as governor, he worked hard to protect the environment. He played a key role in creating the National Park of American Samoa. This park helps protect the unique nature and wildlife of the islands. It was a big achievement for conservation.

He was elected governor again in 1992. He continued to work on important issues for the people of American Samoa.

Later Life and Legacy

Final Years

A. P. Lutali passed away on August 1, 2002, after suffering a stroke. He was 82 years old.

Lasting Impact

Lutali's work had a lasting impact on American Samoa. Two important places are named in his honor:

  • The A. P. Lutali Elementary School on the island of Aunu'u.
  • The A P Lutali Executive Office Building in Utulei.

These names remind everyone of his dedication to education, government, and preserving the heritage of American Samoa.

kids search engine
A. P. Lutali Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.