What is Potlatch?

Potlatches were traditionally held by the Northwest Coast Indians. They lived along the northwest coast of the United States and Canada. But what is a potlatch? It is a celebration or social gathering held by the native people. They usually took place after a new baby was born, or someone was married. But it wasn't like our modern gatherings. You would think that people would come and give gifts to the new babies or couples, like a baby shower or a wedding reception. But it was quite opposite. The hosts of the party would give gifts to all of the guests. They would do this in order to keep their pride and honor. This would give them high status. But not only are gifts given out, but like most celebrations a feast takes place. What is interesting about potlatches is that after one is held the hosts usually end up very poor. This is because they give almost everything they have to their guests. But as more potlatches are held the gifts circle around and new people become wealthy and poor. To our culture this seems rather strange. In fact, when the Europeans first met the Northwest Indians and discovered their potlatches, thats exactly what they thought. And with time, the European influence took over the natives and their potlatches were lost forever.