Malietoa Talavou Tonumaipe’a

Who was Malietoa Talavou Tonumaipe’a?

Le Susuga Malietoa Talavou Tonumaipe’a was installed as "King" of Samoa to the western world on August 28, 1879 until his death on November 9, 1880. Since Malietoa Talavou's half brother's death, Malietoa Moli in 1860, ongoing wars due to power and authority struggle between Talavou and Laupepa over the next Malietoa title holder and the gaining of support by the districts of Samoa. Family rivalry existed as did a 30 year age difference drew a wedge between Malietoa Laupepa and Malietoa Talavou. They were known to be longtime rivals over the Malietoa title.

Since the death of M. Moli in 1860, the people of Samoa were undecided in their allegiance to one Malietoa title holder. In 1869, Talavou was conferred the Malietoa title by the majority of the districts all of whom were against Laupepa's claim to the Malietoa title. Also in 1869, Laupepa was strongly supported by the majority in the Tuamasaga district. Both Talavou and Laupepa jointly held the Malietoa title until their deaths.

At the end of Malietoa Gatuitasina's reign and death in 1858, the Malietoa title did not transition downward in its normal traditional order of succession by generation, age and seniority. M.