Introduction

Our country got its name from the Huron-Haudenosaunee word "kanata," meaning "our village."

From time immemorial, Canada has been the home of many varied First Nations people. Different groups from different areas of Canada speak different languages, have different creation stories, and they also had unique and distinct cultures (ways of living). But, despite their differences, all Aboriginal peoples share deep roots in the past and sacred values of respect, balance and harmony. These values are passed on from one generation to the next by the elders. They tell the children stories that provide examples of how one should act toward others, with honour and respect, as well as how to respect the land, plants and animals.
This project divides Canada's Aboriginal peoples, as they were around the time of first contact with the Europeans, into seven main cultural groups. The groups are:

• Northwest Coast
• Plateau
• Plains
• Arctic
• Subarctic
• Woodland Iroquoians
• Woodland Algonquians

We will look at creation stories, elements of nature that were, and still are, vitally important for each group, and how and where each group lived. Although the Metis are not represented in this portion of the project, they are an important part of Canada and Canadian history. They will be briefly presented at the end, as will present day issues. Enjoy and learn!

Much of the information presented is gleaned from The Kids Book of Aboriginal Peoples in Canada (2005) by Diane Silvey.