The Three Families was a grouping of Hutts that was formed on the planet Quesh and existed by the time of the Cold War. These families consisted of groups led by Broga Masrii, Jeelta and Portho following the discovery of Quesh venom. The properties of the compound proved to be a vital attraction to the Galactic Republic who had difficult in refining the substance and turned to the Hutt Cartel. However, the Cartel refused to offer aid which led to three Hutts breaking away from it and establishing their own business enterprise as they sensed the potential profit by dealing with the Republic and offered their services.