First of all, a potlatch is a type of social gathering in which resources, especially food, is redistributed among the group. The unique characteristic of a potlatch though is that it is a form of competitive feasting, in which a powerful leader of the group shows off his wealth and prestige to other rival leaders. Basically, the more guests and food brought to the potlatch means the more power or influence the group leader has. Rivals had to host an even bigger or more elaborate potlatch in order to seem more powerful than other chiefs. Goods didn't always have to be consumed though, even their destruction meant the chief was powerful; the more that could be wasted meant the society had greater resources overall. Every potlatch society has a single, central point where the resources are brought in, and where the resources can be spread among the group as well.
Although this practice is seen among the Northwest Coast Native Americans, we can see various similarities of the potlatch in modern American society as well. For one, social gatherings, such as holiday feasts along with elaborate weddings and coming-of-age ceremonies are examples of modern potlatches. Holiday feasts though, especially Christmas and Thanksgiving, are the best examples because they are social gatherings where much food and resources are redistributed. In most families, a large meal is prepared for the guests and other family members (food redistribution). The guests tend to bring their own dish for the host as well, which helps increase the resources. Like a potlatch, the more guests means more food being available, which can be wasted; showing off the wealth and prestige of the host. Wealthier families are able to throw more elaborate Christmas parties, including putting up festive decorations and providing expensive cusine.
The potlatch feast is a highly regarded tradition within the Kwakiutl and Tlingit Pacific Northwest tribes, and you can see its similiarities in modern American families. Although Americans may not be conscious of the competition going on between different groups. especially at a Christmas feast, it's still there. The potlatch is not all about competition and power though, it's still a social gathering for the tribe. Christmas dinner is a special time where family members and friends can get together and celebrate religious values. The redistribution of food and resources among the potlatch tribes benefit its members, just like it would during a holiday feast for an American family.
I liked how you emphasized the competition in potlatches. Gatherings like these do show how influential one is in their society. The bigger the party the more powerful one seemed. It is upsetting though how sometimes people put so much money into a potlatch that they can practically go bankrupt. All of that spending just to prove you're powerful, but are they that influential if they are spending their money so irresponsibly?
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