The use of alcohol by 3 Indian tribes in British Columbia, the Homalthko, Tlahoose and Sliammon is described from the standpoint of its historical background, present day patterns, drunken behavior, comparison with white drinking, and its relation to basic personality. The form of their drinking shows the results of early historical influences and also of influences from surrounding white population. However, Indian drinking is differentiated from that of whites both in form and function. The stereotype of the "drunken Indian" appears to affect the drinking pattern and a relation is found to exist between alcoholic indulgence and aggressiveness. Chronic alcoholism is absent although a few cases of acute alcoholism (delirium tremens) have occurred. The role of the chief and of the woman seems to be conducive to atypical drinking.