What happened during a Northwest Coast potlatch?

A potlatch is a ceremonial event practiced by the Indigenous peoples of the Northwest Pacific coast to publicly affirm or reaffirm social status. The term, which originates from a trade jargon, means "to give".12

During a potlatch, a host invites members of other house groups to serve as formal witnesses to significant life transitions, such as marriages, funerals, the building of a house, or the bestowal of names, titles, and ceremonial rights. The proceedings are characterized by:12

• Formalities: Guests are received with great ceremony, and the event includes structured speechmaking.12
• Distribution of Wealth: The host distributes gifts and serves large amounts of food. Gifts are given in rank order, with the most valuable items presented to guests of the highest status.12
• Public Validation: Because the events are witnessed by many, they serve to publicly validate the host's claims to social rank and the status of the recipients.12
• Hospitality: The host’s kin group works to maximize generosity, providing feasts and ensuring guests have ample food to take home.12