Final answer:
The Native Americans of the Northwest Coast had time for various cultural activities due to the abundant natural resources in the region, which supported stable, complex societies and allowed for the development of stratified communities and traditions like the potlatch.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Native Americans of the Northwest had time for potlatches, wrestling matches, dances, and crafting due to the abundant natural resources in the region. The Pacific Northwest's climate was mild, and resources, particularly marine life such as salmon, were plentiful. These resources supported stable, complex hunter-gatherer societies that did not require nomadic lifestyles. Instead, they established large, permanent towns that formed the basis of their political and social structures.
Communities thrived because of a high "carrying capacity" of the land, meaning the environment could support a large population. This stability allowed for the development of a highly stratified society and cultural activities like the potlatch, which reinforced social hierarchies. With ample food and stable communities, Native Americans of the Northwest Coast were able to invest time in social and cultural pursuits.
Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is d. Had abundant natural resources.