Native people were the first people to live in Canada and can be divided into six main cultural groups - Northwest Coast; Plateau; Plains; Eastern Woodlands; Subarctic; and Arctic. Each group had homes, methods of transportation and sources of food that suited the region where they lived and the way of life of the people. Their cultures are examples of amazing skills, ability and beauty. Today, First Nations People, the Inuit and the Métis (people of mixed First Nations and European descent) are known as Canada's Aboriginal People. When Europeans came to Canada, they caused many problems for the Native people and changed forever their way of life. Some groups have overcome certain problems and have found success in creating their own special way of life in the modern world. For others, many of the same problems still exist today. Slowly, Native understanding, appreciation and respect for nature is being recognized and both Native and Non-native people are working hard to find solutions - working on settling land claims, setting up self-government, establishing businesses, and improving housing, health care and education.

"Program 703".

Introduction -- Origins of Canada's Native People -- Northwest Coast Native People -- Plateau Native People -- Plains Native People -- Eastern Woodlands Native People -- Subarctic Native People -- Arctic Native People -- The Arrival of Europeans -- Summary.