Tui Manua Elisala

Elisala was formally installed as Tui Manua, the paramount chief of the Manu'a Islands, succeeding his predecessor. His reign was marked by the decline of traditional authority as European colonial powers increasingly influenced the Pacific islands.

Tui Manua Elisala resisted German attempts to claim the Manu'a Islands as part of their Samoan colony. He maintained Manu'a's independence and sought protection from the United States, ultimately leading to the American annexation rather than German control.

Tui Manua Elisala signed the Deed of Cession, formally transferring sovereignty of the Manu'a Islands to the United States. This ended the traditional monarchy of Manu'a and incorporated the islands into American Samoa, with Elisala retaining ceremonial titles.