Before contact with Europeans, the indigenous peoples in British Columbia had a diverse political structure consisting of autonomous and semi-autonomous bands. The indigenous peoples of the region had distinct cultural identities, languages, and territories, and their political systems varied across different groups. However, there were some common features in their political organization.

The basic political unit among indigenous peoples in British Columbia was the band or tribe, which typically consisted of extended families or clans who shared a common ancestry and occupied a specific territory. Each band had its own chief or leader, who held a position of authority and acted as a representative and spokesperson for the community. Chiefs were often chosen based on their wisdom, leadership abilities, and knowledge of traditional customs and practices. Leadership within the bands was not necessarily hereditary, and chiefs were chosen based on their merit and the support of the community. Some bands had a council of elders who played an important role in decision-making, offering guidance and advice to the chief. The authority of the chief was not absolute, and decisions were often made through a process of consultation and consensus-building. The political structure extended beyond individual bands to include larger regional or tribal groupings. These regional groups consisted of several bands that shared cultural, linguistic, and territorial connections. Chiefs from different bands would often come together to discuss matters of common concern, resolve disputes, and make decisions that affected the entire region. The indigenous peoples of British Columbia had complex kinship networks and systems of governance that incorporated a balance of power and responsibilities. Leadership was often based on a combination of personal qualities, spiritual connections, and the ability to provide for the well-being of the community. Decision-making processes were often participatory, emphasizing consensus-building and the inclusion of multiple voices. It's important to note that the political structure and governance systems of indigenous bands in British Columbia were highly diverse and varied across different nations and regions. Each group had its own unique traditions, customs, and systems of leadership. This diversity reflects the rich cultural heritage and autonomy of the indigenous peoples in the region prior to European contact.