Social Structure - Societies
During the summer when the bands assembled for tribal ceremonies and hunting, the warrior societies would become active. These societies, known as Pan-tribal Sodalities, are a very interesting social institution. Membership was not based on kinship ties. Membership crosscut the bands and was purchased. A number of young men would purchase membership in the lowest society. Throughout their lives, they would continue to purchase membership in higher societies while selling their old positions to the new generation. These warrior societies acted as a police force, regulating camp moves and the communal hunt.
Territory |
Tribes |
Social Structure - Basic |
Social Structure - Societies |
Seasonal Travel |
Winter |
What were Bison doing in winter? |
Spring |
Summer - The Sun Dance |
After Signing Treaty 7 |
