Indigenous peoples are the original inhabitants of a particular region or country before the arrival of colonizers or settlers. They have distinct cultural traditions, languages, and social structures that have been passed down through generations. Indigenous communities often maintain strong connections to their ancestral lands and spiritual practices.
Some well-known Indigenous groups around the world include:
- Native Americans (United States)
- First Nations, Métis, and Inuit (Canada)
- Māori (New Zealand)
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (Australia)
- Sami (Northern Europe)
- Ainu (Japan)
- Quechua and Mapuche (South America)
- San and Maasai (Africa)
Despite their resilience, Indigenous peoples have historically faced challenges such as displacement, cultural assimilation, and discrimination. Today, many Indigenous communities continue to advocate for their rights, land sovereignty, and cultural preservation.