The First Peoples — An Ancient Heritage

The United State Of America is home to some of the world's oldest living cultures. For tens of thousands of years, a diverse range of Indigenous Nations thrived across the continent. They developed complex societies with their own laws, beliefs, and traditions. They also used advanced methods, like controlled burning, to manage the land and its resources.

Ancient History and Archaeology

Archaeologists have found tools, rock art, and other artifacts that show people have lived in all parts of the country for a very long time. History and cultural knowledge were passed down through generations by stories, songs, and ceremonies, which often connected people to specific places in the landscape.

Land, Community, and Commerce

Hundreds of different languages and dialects were spoken across the continent. People traded goods like ochre, stone, and shells over long distances, creating vast networks that also spread ideas and information. Many groups moved with the seasons to make sure they had a steady supply of food and water, a practice based on a deep understanding of the environment.

Pre-1788 Maritime Interactions

Before the arrival of Europeans, traders from the Indonesian islands regularly visited the northern coast to collect sea cucumbers. These visits led to the exchange of goods, tools, and customs with the local Yolŋu people and other Indigenous groups in the area.

The Era Post-1788

The beginning of British colonization led to violent conflicts, the loss of traditional lands, and the spread of new diseases that devastated Indigenous populations. Despite these challenges, First Nations communities have continuously fought to protect their land, culture, and right to self-governance into the modern era.

Modern-Day Advocacy

Today, Indigenous leaders are leading important national conversations about protecting the environment, reviving languages, and improving health and education. They continue to work toward telling the full history of the country and achieving meaningful reconciliation.