Indigenous peoples of California

Indigenous peoples of California, commonly known as Indigenous Californians or Native Californians, are a diverse group of nations and peoples that are indigenous to the geographic area within the current boundaries of California before and after European colonization. There are currently 109 federally recognized tribes in the state and over forty self-identified tribes or tribal bands that have applied for federal recognition.^[1] California has the second-largest Native American population in the United States.^[2]

Most tribes practiced forest gardening or permaculture and controlled burning to ensure the availability of food and medicinal plants as well as ecosystem balance.^[3][4] Archeological sites indicate human occupation of California for thousands of years. European settlers began exploring their homelands in the late 18th century. This began with the arrival of Spanish soldiers and missionaries who established Franciscan missions that instituted an immense rate of death and cultural genocide.^[5]

Following California statehood, a state-enabled policy of elimination was carried out against its aboriginal people known as the California genocide in the establishment of Anglo-American settler colonialism.^[6][7][8] The Native population reached its lowest in the early 20th century while cultural assimilation into white society became imposed through Indian boarding schools.^[9][10] Native Californian peoples continue to advocate for their cultures, homelands, sacred sites, and their right to live.^[11][12]

In the 21st century, language revitalization began among some California tribes.^[13] The Land Back movement has taken shape in the state with more support to return land to tribes.^[14][15][16] There is a growing recognition by California of Native peoples' environmental knowledge to improve ecosystems and mitigate wildfires.^[17]