Final answer:
A 'big man' is most often tied to an informal leadership role within small, local communities or tribal structures, distinct from centralized political systems with formal authority figures such as chiefs or kings.
Step-by-step explanation:
A 'big man' is a term most commonly associated with a type of informal leadership within certain non-centralized tribal or clan-based societies. Unlike a chief, who inherits the formal structure of authority, the big man gains his status through wealth accumulation, public generosity, and skillful verbal persuasion. The role of a big man is recognized at a local level, within smaller communities or lineage orders, which could be described in some instances as political organizations at the grassroots level.
Big men hold a significant amount of influence, yet lack formal coercive power. Their authority is not enforced by laws or governmental structures but is rooted in their ability to manage and distribute resources equitably and to serve their community. A big man's status is gained and maintained through personal attributes and actions, such as sponsoring feasts and aiding in bride wealth payments, which garner respect and loyalty from community members.