President Obama and Air Force One flew back to Andrews Air Force Base from Seattle with one less person. While in the Pacific Northwest, the new President attended a potlatch ceremony with the Kwakwaka'wakw Indian tribe.
A potlatch is a centuries old Native American ceremony where the people compete to give away the most. The person able to give away the most is seen as the richest and receives great prestige among the area tribes. Indians have given away homes, children (as slaves or mates), belongings, and wives to gain respect and honor among their peers.
A White House protocol officer explained the procedures to the President, but he apparently did not listen.
From the Native Americans present, the President received five woven blankets, a Kachina doll, a coup stick, a feathered headdress, and a beaded necklace.
President Obama gained great prestige and honor through his gifts. In total, he gave away Vice President Joe Biden, NORAD, the island of Maui, Cleveland, and his baseball card collection (including a 1956 Mickey Mantle card).
