What are the 11 Indigenous tribes of Quebec?

Quebec is home to 11 Indigenous nations, each with its own traditions, language, and way of life. These nations have preserved their cultural heritage despite the challenges of history. Here is an overview of these peoples who enrich Quebec's identity.

The 11 Indigenous Nations of Quebec

1. The Innu

The Innu (formerly known as Montagnais) inhabit the Côte-Nord and Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean regions. They are famous for their traditional way of life based on hunting and fishing.

2. The Atikamekw

Living mainly in the Mauricie and Lanaudière regions, the Atikamekw are known for their craftsmanship and their attachment to the boreal forest.

3. The Anishinaabe (Algonquins)

This people lives in western Quebec and still practices a semi-nomadic lifestyle based on nature.

4. The Eeyou (Cries)

The Cree inhabit the James Bay area and are renowned for their self-governance and sustainable development initiatives.

5. The Naskapi

The Naskapi, a small community living in northern Quebec, have preserved an ancestral way of life based on caribou hunting.

6. The Wendat (Huron-Wendat)

Near Quebec City, in Wendake, the Wendat people are famous for their craftsmanship and their involvement in the history of the fur trade.

7. The Mohawks

Settled mainly in Kahnawake, Kanesatake and Akwesasne, the Mohawks are known for their cultural resistance and their role in the construction of skyscrapers.

8. The Abenaki

The Abenaki live in southern Quebec and are distinguished by their rich craft tradition and history of resistance.

9. The Maliseet

Although their presence is more pronounced in New Brunswick, the Maliseet maintain strong ties with Quebec.

10. The Mi'kmaq

This people mainly inhabits the Gaspé Peninsula and has a strong maritime tradition.

11. The Inuit

The Inuit live in Nunavik and are known for their remarkable adaptation to Arctic conditions.

Conclusion

The 11 Indigenous nations of Quebec are a living cultural treasure. Their resilience and ancestral know-how contribute to the richness of Quebec's heritage.

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