14. Potlatch Ceremonies of Indigenous Peoples of the Pacific Northwest
The Potlatch is a grand ceremonial tradition among Indigenous groups of the Pacific Northwest, centered around the giving of lavish gifts and feasts. Here, social status and honor are built through acts of generosity rather than wealth accumulation. When Europeans first encountered the Potlatch, they struggled to comprehend why anyone would willingly give away valuable possessions. For the host communities, however, the ceremony is a profound celebration of community, leadership, and reciprocity. Learn more at The Canadian Encyclopedia.
