The social structure of the Dakotas split the tribe into many different bands of people. Each band had its own worries and roles as leaders. Although the tribe was split into these groups the majority of people who were not involved in a band still had responsibilities based on their age and gender. Even though the tribe worked as individuals in their bands they were capable of coming together as one tribe to overcome challenges and take advantage of many opportunities. Every band had its own name and was relied on by the entire population to do their jobs. The first bands of people were called the White-Horse Owners. Their role was to improve and keep the attitude or moral of the tribe at a positive level. The second and most important of the four bands were the Naca Ominicias or also known as the Big Bellies. These people were mostly in charge of the tribe’s policies on wars, moving of the camp, and hunting. They also had the important responsibility of choosing administrators, executives and the members of the other bands. The Shirt Wearers were another band that was made up of people the Naca Ominicias had chosen to be spokesman for their ideas and decisions. Along with being a spokesman the Shirt Wearers also were representatives at negotiations for their tribe. The Pipe Owners or Wakincuzas were the last group of people and were mainly in charge of the tribe movements along with this they were also leaders over the Akicitas. (Tribal Police) While each band within the tribe had different jobs each member of the group took great pride in their band and what they did.
.jpg)
