Role of Boys and Girls in Samoan Island in 1920

In Samoan society in the 1920s, gender roles and responsibilities were distinct and played an important role in shaping the community. Boys and girls had different roles and expectations, which were influenced by cultural and traditional norms. Let's explore the roles of boys and girls in the Samoan island during that time.

Boys:
- Education: Boys received formal education, focusing on subjects such as reading, writing, mathematics, and Samoan culture. They attended schools and were encouraged to pursue higher education.
- Physical Activities: Boys were expected to engage in physical activities and develop strength and endurance. They participated in sports, such as wrestling, spear throwing, and canoe racing, which were essential for their physical development.
- Work and Responsibilities: Boys were assigned tasks related to agriculture, fishing, and manual labor. They assisted their fathers and older male relatives in farming, tending livestock, and building houses.
- Leadership and Decision Making: Boys were groomed to become leaders and decision-makers within their families and communities. They were taught to be responsible, assertive, and capable of managing and resolving conflicts.
- Cultural Practices: Boys were involved in various cultural practices and rituals, including tattooing, which symbolized their transition into manhood. They were also expected to uphold cultural traditions and customs.

Girls:
- Domestic Duties: Girls were primarily responsible for domestic chores and household management. They learned skills such as cooking, cleaning, weaving, and childcare from their mothers and older female relatives.
- Education: Formal education for girls was not as common as it was for boys. However, some girls did receive education, often focusing on skills like sewing and embroidery.
- Socialization: Girls were encouraged to develop social skills and etiquette to prepare them for future roles as wives and mothers. They learned how to interact, communicate, and form relationships within their community.
- Contribution to Livelihood: Girls also played a role in contributing to the family's livelihood. They assisted in agricultural activities, cared for younger siblings, and engaged in crafts to generate income for the household.
- Cultural Practices: Girls participated in cultural practices such as dance, song, and storytelling, which were important for preserving Samoan traditions. They also took part in ceremonies and rituals associated with puberty, marriage, and childbirth.

Conclusion:
In the Samoan island in 1920, boys and girls had distinct roles and responsibilities within their society. Boys were educated, engaged in physical activities, and prepared for leadership roles, while girls focused on domestic duties, socialization, and contributed to the family's livelihood. Both genders played significant roles in preserving cultural practices and traditions, ensuring the continuity and harmony of the Samoan community.