from The Tlingit, an introduction to their Culture and History.
by Wallace M. Olson
...there were killings and counter-killings. If they reached a point where both sides wanted peace, they could organize a "deer ceremony". Deer were considered the most peaceful of all animals. A few men on each side were selected as "deer". In a mock battle, the "deer" were captured by their opposites and held prisoner. After four days, the "deer" were set free and there was a feast to celebrate the peace treaty. By holding the men as hostages and not killing them, both sides indicated that they really wanted a truce.
In researching the concept of "deer" as hostages, a Tlingit anthropologist found the practice was observed by other Northwest Coast people as well. When the first Europeans arrived in the area, they reported that whenever Tlingit approached a ship they put their arms out to the side and called for "deer." They wanted to exchange hostages to insure peace during the time they were trading.
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