An Ancient Bond with the Land

Trade Fairs

A Festive Occasion

The trade fair was a well-organized event that combined economic, social and political goals with entertainment. The central focus was ceremonial trade, a formalized, communal form of exchange. Tribal leaders supervised this trade, which involved most members of the two communities, either as participants or observers. Other events accompanying the ceremonial trade included informal private trade, visiting, feasting, dancing, competitive games, gambling and sometimes a communal hunt.