Samoan Independence explores Samoa's journey from colonial rule to becoming the first independent Pacific nation in 1962. This pivotal period is examined through the lens of political maneuvering, cultural resilience, and the people's unwavering pursuit of self-governance. The book highlights how Samoa strategically navigated international politics and overcame challenges posed by German colonization and New Zealand administration.

One intriguing fact is the role of the Mau movement, a non-violent resistance, which significantly impacted New Zealand's policies. The book uniquely emphasizes the agency of the Samoan people in shaping their destiny, moving beyond traditional top-down analyses of colonial policies. It highlights the bottom-up forces driving the independence movement.

Structured in three main sections, the book progresses from pre-colonial Samoan society through German rule, New Zealand administration, and finally, to the post-World War II era, detailing the UN's role and the transfer of power to Samoan leaders. The narrative draws from diverse sources, including colonial archives and oral histories, offering a comprehensive view of Samoa's nation-building process.