The Winnebago, Sauk, and Fox Indians had similar types of governments  which consisted of two different kinds of chiefs, the peace chiefs and the war chiefs.  A chief hoped to pass his position to one of his sons, but inheritance was not automatic. The son had to deserve the position of chief by virtue of his own success and integrity.  Decisions about tribal matters were made by groups of peace chiefs who then advised the tribe but did not force their decisions on members.  Each person was free to make his or her own choices.  Behavior was controlled by the fear of losing the respect and friendship of the tribe’s people.  There was little crime, no theft, and no prison.
     War chiefs were men who were courageous and successful in battle.  Most interactions between tribes were peaceful in this area, but some attacks were made in retaliation for encroaching on traditional hunting grounds.  Warriors often returned from these raids with prisoners who would be adopted into families and become members of the tribe.
 

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