Mataʻafa Iosefo

From the late 19th century, Iosefo played a pivotal role during the country's colonial era when Germany, Great Britain and the United States were vying for control of the Samoa Islands.

[3] Mata'afa Iosefo first came into prominence in September 1888 when under his command, his followers rebelled against the German-backed Tamasese who was proclaimed Tafa'ifa or King of Samoa.

A battle of the First Samoan Civil War saw Iosefo's warriors send Tamasese's forces retreating to Mulinuʻu Point where a German gunship offered protection.

In March, American admiral Albert Kautz attempted to oust Iosefo by declaring the abolition of his provisional government and ordering him out of Apia.

[5]:406 His push for the kingship of Samoa was also supported by the early Mau movement led by orator Lauaki Namulauulu Mamoe.