California Native Americans

California Native Americans are the diverse Indigenous peoples who have inhabited the region for thousands of years before European contact. They consist of hundreds of distinct tribes and languages, each with unique cultures, traditions, and spiritual practices. These communities traditionally relied on hunting, fishing, gathering, and agriculture suited to California's varied landscapes. Today, California Native Americans work to preserve their cultural heritage, sovereignty, and connection to their ancestral lands amidst modern social and legal challenges. Their history and contributions are fundamental to California's cultural identity and ongoing efforts toward recognition and revitalization.