In 1899 in power struggle for the throne, a tribal war erupted in Samoa. American Marines and sailors landed with British marines to prevent a German-backed warlord from taking control of the island nation. The Allied landing force quickly seized the city of Apia, but was not able to pacify the interior. In an attempt to quell the hostile natives once and for all, an allied force of a 100 plus were ambushed by 800 native warriors at the Battle of Tagalii, the Americans and British were chased back into the sea.
Control for the islands were in a deadlock. Finally, with the Anglo-American forces controlling the roads and more urban areas, and the German-backed forces controlling the jungles, an agreement was drawn up, partitioning the islands between Germany, U.S., and England.
An attempt was made to issues a tropical dress for the Marines included the British Army's foreign service pith helmet. The helmets were copies perhaps and most likely obtained with the help of the British Minister in Washington in 1875. Unfortunately, the helmets were unsuccessful and not popular with the troops. |
