California was home to one of the largest Native American populations in North America prior to European settlement.
The Chumash
The Chumash inhabited the central and southern coastal regions of California. They were known for their craftsmanship and use of shell bead currency.
The Pomo
The Pomo resided in northern California areas like Clear Lake. They were hunter-gatherers and basket weavers who lived in tribelets.
The Miwok
The Miwok were among the largest groups in California with four main tribes: the Coast Miwok, Lake Miwok, Bay Miwok, and Interior Miwok. They were skilled fishermen.
The Tongva
Also called the Gabrieleño, the Tongva tribe inhabited the Los Angeles basin and southern coastal area. Their first contact with Europeans was in 1542.
The Nisenan
The Nisenan or Southern Maidu occupied the northern Sierra Nevada region. They practiced controlled burning of woodlands and were renowned basket makers.
Though decimated by disease and conflict, many California tribal groups persevered and maintain their cultural identities today.