*** About Totem Poles: Totem poles are monumental carvings originating from the Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast of North America, specifically British Columbia in Canada and Alaska in the United States. These sculptures are crafted from large trees, predominantly western red cedar, by First Nations artists, and feature a variety of figures, each representing familial lineage, cultural myths, or significant historical events. Totem poles are not worship objects but are esteemed as heraldic symbols telling stories and preserving the culture. The figures on the poles can represent animals, mythical creatures, and ancestors, and their significance and symbolism can vary extensively across different tribes and communities. The crafting of a totem pole is an elaborate ritual, bursting with ceremonies and a significant social event in indigenous cultures, often accompanied by potlatch, a festive gathering that reinforces community ties.

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