This is a paper detailing the cultural anthropology of Kwakiutl traditional feasts, called potlatches. They are huge, extravagant gift-giving ceremonies in which the host's object is to give away as much as he can, in order to appear wealthy and powerful. Potlatches, and the loan-repayment tradition in Kwakiutl society, are also an integral part of tribal social mobility. By giving enough potlatches, a man on the lower rungs of the tribal hierarchy can attain a position of power and influence. The paper also compares Kwakiutl traditions with European celebratory and gift-giving ceremonies. 8 pgs. Bibliography lists 5 sources.
