For thousands of years, the land now known as Nevada was home to various Native American tribes, including the Paiute, Shoshone, and Washoe. Each tribe had their own names for the region, often reflecting its natural features or resources. The Paiute, for example, referred to themselves as the “Numu,” meaning “the People,” while the Washoe people’s name, “Waší∙šiw,” translates to “people from here.” These names emphasize the deep connection and sense of belonging these tribes felt toward the land.