The Northwest Coast and Plateau societies depended on oral traditions involving stories, songs, and dances for several reasons:
1. Both societies lacked a written language: Since they did not have a system of writing, oral traditions were the primary way to pass down their history, culture, and traditions from generation to generation.
2. Medicine people refused to write: In some cases, the individuals responsible for preserving and transmitting knowledge, such as medicine people, may have chosen not to write down their teachings, preferring to keep them within the oral tradition.
3. Spirits needed to hear the message: Beliefs in the spiritual world and the importance of communication with spirits were integral to these societies. Oral traditions, through songs, stories, and dances, were seen as a way to connect with and convey messages to the spirits.
4. Both societies lacked the tools to create art: While art was indeed important in these societies, particularly in the form of totem poles and other visual representations, the absence of a written language did not necessarily mean a lack of artistic expression. Oral traditions, including stories and songs, served as a form of art and cultural expression for these communities.
In summary, the reliance on oral traditions was a result of the absence of a written language, cultural preferences, spiritual beliefs, and the significance of passing down knowledge and traditions through storytelling and other oral means.
