Clan

A clan is a group of people united by actual or perceived kinship and descent. Even if actual lineage patterns are unknown, clan members may nonetheless recognize a founding member or apical ancestor. The kinship-based bonds may be merely symbolical in nature, whereby the clan shares a "stipulated" common ancestor that is a symbol of the clan's unity.

Humans, Sangheili and Jiralhanae live or have lived in a Clan-based lifestyle at some point in their history.

Sangheili clans are similar to that of the Scotch, in the sense that those within a clan operate as a single family, whose family name originates from their founder (The Sangheili Vadam clan was presumably founded by a Sangheili by the name of Vadam). Clans appear to be settled (Non-Nomadic) in territories (ie. the State of Vadam). Like the Scotch, they are run by a Tribal chief (a Kaidon), who is supported by a council of Elders).

Jiralhanae clans are more primitive, though still share similarities to the Sangheili clans. They appear to be Nomadic and lack Elders, making the leader (a Chieftain) their sole commander. New Chieftains can be recognized quickly, when a clan-member kills his chieftain in honorable combat.