How did the wealthy indians of the pacific northwest demonstrate their power

Although they have different cultural identities, the several nations, which are part of the indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast have some traditions, practices and beliefs in common, such as the potlatch ceremonies. In the potlatch, people gathered in order to commemorate a specific event, which could be the raising of a Totem, marriages, changing of seasons or the election of a new chief. These ceremonies were held in competition with one   another, providing an ocasion to display wealth and power, by distributing important gifts to the guests, as well as entertaining the visitors with highly skilled dancers.

i think its the outcome of people's preferences.