How did the political organization of Plateau villages differ among the Ntlakapamux, Sanpoil, and Flathead?

In traditional Plateau societies, the village served as the primary sociopolitical unit, though the degree of hierarchy varied significantly among tribes.1

• Ntlakapamux: These groups utilized a relatively informal system based on consensus.1
• Sanpoil: They maintained a more formal political structure. Each village was led by a chief and a subchief, supported by a general assembly where all married adults held a vote.1
• Flathead: This group was the most hierarchical. They were led by a head chief who possessed significant authority, including the power to make decisions regarding war and peace without being bound by the recommendations of a council. This head chief oversaw various band chiefs.1

Across these societies, social control was generally maintained through public opinion and social pressure rather than coercion, as individuals could often choose to relocate to a different village or band if they disagreed with leadership decisions.1