Inupiat

The Inupiat are an Indigenous people of the Arctic regions of northern Alaska. They are part of the broader Inuit group, which also includes peoples in Canada and Greenland. The term "Inuit" means "the people".12

The Inupiat traditionally lived a subsistence lifestyle, relying on hunting, trapping, and fishing. Their environment, while often perceived as harsh, was familiar and provided for them when treated with respect. Their economy was seasonally organized, with different activities focused on land and sea resources throughout the year. For example, they hunted caribou in the summer and focused on sea mammals like seals and whales in other seasons.342

Historically, Inupiat society was organized around kinship and place of residence, rather than formal clans or tribes. They developed sophisticated hunting techniques and utilized tools like kayaks, umiaks, and harpoons. Traditional beliefs were animistic, with a strong connection to the spirit world. While modern life has brought changes, including new technologies and economic shifts, efforts are underway to preserve and revitalize Inupiat culture.34256