Who Are the Tlingit?
The Tlingit (pronounced KLING-kit) are an indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest Coast, numbering approximately 15,000-20,000 in southeastern Alaska and northern British Columbia. They speak Tlingit, a Na-Dené language isolate with extraordinarily complex phonology (over 40 consonants). The Tlingit developed one of the world's most complex non-agricultural societies—wealthy from salmon, supported elaborate art, potlatch ceremonies, and sophisticated social organization. Their territory spans the Alexander Archipelago's dramatic landscape of islands, fjords, and rainforest. Despite devastating colonial impacts, Tlingit culture has experienced remarkable revival, with renewed potlatching, language programs, and traditional art.
Clan System
Tlingit society divides into two moieties—Raven and Eagle (or Wolf)—each containing numerous clans. Clan identity, inherited matrilineally, determines marriage (must marry opposite moiety), social obligations, ceremonial roles, and property rights (including songs, stories, and crest designs). Clans own specific designs depicting clan ancestors and histories; unauthorized use is serious offense. This system structures everything from daily life to elaborate potlatch ceremonies. Houses traditionally displayed clan crests; totem poles proclaimed ancestry and status. Despite colonial disruption, the clan system remains vital—Tlingit introduce themselves by clan, and clan obligations continue guiding behavior.
Potlatch
The potlatch—elaborate ceremonial gatherings involving feasting, gift-giving, speeches, and performances—was central to Northwest Coast societies. Potlatches marked life events (naming, coming of age, death, succession), validated status, redistributed wealth, and maintained social relationships. The host clan's prestige increased through generous giving. Canadian and US authorities banned potlatch (1885-1951) as "wasteful" and contrary to capitalist values—a profound assault on indigenous culture. Tlingit continued secret potlatches during prohibition. Since legalization, potlatch has revived; contemporary ceremonies combine traditional protocols with adaptations, demonstrating cultural resilience and ongoing relevance.
Formline Art
Tlingit art exemplifies the Northwest Coast formline tradition—a distinctive graphic system using flowing lines, ovoids, and U-forms to represent animals, ancestors, and supernatural beings. This sophisticated style appears on totem poles, house fronts, bentwood boxes, blankets (Chilkat weaving), and everyday objects. Each design element follows strict conventions while allowing individual expression. Master artists trained for years; their work conveyed clan identity, spiritual power, and wealth. Contemporary Tlingit artists continue the tradition while exploring new media. The distinctive visual style is immediately recognizable and represents one of the world's great artistic traditions.
Contemporary Tlingit
Modern Tlingit have achieved significant cultural and political revitalization. Sealaska Corporation (ANCSA regional corporation) provides economic opportunities; Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska exercises governmental authority. Language programs combat endangerment (fewer than 500 fluent speakers remain, mostly elders); immersion schools and apps support learning. Potlatches, clan gatherings, and traditional arts flourish. Repatriation efforts have returned sacred objects. Tourism brings income while raising commodification concerns. How Tlingit balance cultural preservation with economic development, transmit language to new generations, and maintain traditional governance defines their contemporary path.
References
- Emmons, G. T. (1991). The Tlingit Indians (edited by F. de Laguna)
- Dauenhauer, N. & R. (1987). Haa Shuká, Our Ancestors: Tlingit Oral Narratives
- Kan, S. (1989). Symbolic Immortality: The Tlingit Potlatch of the Nineteenth Century