The Definitive Manual on Gift Giving

The Historical Origins of Gift Giving

The custom of giving gifts has accompanied human civilization since its inception, and perhaps even predates it, as our earliest ancestors exhibited signs of engaging in this practice. Researchers posit that our cavemen predecessors bestowed gifts such as peculiarly shaped rocks or animal teeth to strengthen social bonds and express gratitude towards others. As societal structures evolved, these gifts grew more elaborate and ornate.

Gift Giving in Pre-Colonial Times

For countless millennia, Native American tribes have embraced the tradition of the potlatch. Primarily observed among Pacific Northwest tribes, the potlatch comprised a complex ceremony during which possessions and gifts were bestowed to affirm or reaffirm the social standing and prosperity of the giver. Consequently, the more elaborate the presents and the ceremony itself, the greater the power wielded by the gift giver. A tribal leader of considerable influence was expected to lavish his tribe, according to their hierarchical position, with opulent gifts. Similarly, the Iñupiat tradition in Alaska dictated that upon returning from a fruitful hunt, whaling crews would allocate the largest portion of their catch to other members of the tribe. The level of respect bestowed upon the crew directly correlated with the number of tribe members they had gratified.

Ancient Egyptian Gifts for the Afterlife

Early records from Egyptian history indicate that the departed were interred with goods and gifts deemed necessary for their journey into the afterlife. It was the solemn duty of the eldest son to oversee the burial of his parents and ensure they were adequately equipped. At the very least, these gifts included everyday objects like bowls, combs, and food. Wealthier Egyptians, however, were entombed with idols, amulets, jewelry, furniture, and other precious items. Each gift served a distinct purpose, yet most aimed to safeguard and facilitate the deceased's transition to the afterlife.

Gift Giving in Ancient Greece

Gift giving also held great significance in Ancient Greek society. Elaborate and artistic gifts were proffered as expressions of emotion, tools for forging connections, and acts of mutual assistance and hospitality—an essential concept within Ancient Greek culture. Families were expected to extend warm welcomes to travelers, who could potentially be disguised as deities, by offering them meals and lodging. Additionally, gifts were given as symbols of respect and devotion. For instance, it was customary to bestow gifts upon the gods in exchange for their protection or safe passage on the battlefield.

Medieval Gift Exchange Traditions

During the Middle Ages, the exchange of gifts assumed a pivotal role in social interactions. It provided a meaningful avenue for individuals to foster social bonds and demonstrate loyalty to influential figures and institutions, such as the king or the church. Dowries exemplify a prominent form of medieval gift giving aimed at cultivating relationships. These betrothal gifts involved the bride's father presenting lavish offerings to the groom in return for marrying and caring for his daughter. Such gifts encompassed lands, wealth, livestock, and precious metals.