article

Natchez class and rank reconsidered

Ethnology • 10 (4) • Published In 1971 • Pages: 369-388

By: White, Douglas, Murdock, George Peter, Scaglion, Richard.

Abstract

This study is a critique of Swanton's (1911) interpretation of the Natchez class system and an examination of the so-called "Natchez Paradox," which refers to the practice of class exogamy by Suns (chiefs) and Nobles. The paradox is that within a few generations there would be no prospective wives available from among the commoner class and the social hierarchy would become top-heavy. Swanton's model is not symmetric. Based on demographic data in the historical records, the authors argue for a two-class system of commoners and nobility, with Suns and Honored men being ranks and titles within the latter. Furthermore, the Natchez Paradox is no longer a paradox if women could not pass on their rank to their offspring.

Region

North America

Sub Region

Eastern Woodlands

Document Type

article

Evaluation

Creator Type

Ethnologist

Document Rating

4: Excellent Secondary Data

Analyst

Ian Skoggard; 2019

Field Date

not applicable

Coverage Date

1700-1731

Coverage Place

Adams, Jefferson and Claiborne counties, Mississippi, United States

Notes

Douglas R. White, George P. Murdock, Richard Scaglion

Includes bibliographical references (p. 387-388)

LCCN

64005713

LCSH

Natchez Indians