What is the tribal organization of the Plateau Indians?

The Plateau Indians, primarily located in regions of present-day Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and parts of Canada, were organized into various tribes and bands, each with distinct languages and cultures. They often lived in semi-nomadic communities, relying on fishing, hunting, and gathering for sustenance. Social structures were typically organized around family groups and clans, with leadership often derived from lineage and experience. The tribes also engaged in trade and alliances with one another, fostering a rich cultural exchange among the diverse groups in the Plateau region.