The United States is home to a rich history of Native American cultures and traditions. Native American tribes are an integral part of the nation’s past and present, contributing to the diverse tapestry of American society. Some states are home to a higher number of recognized tribes due to historical, geographical, and cultural factors. Here’s a look at the states with the most Native American tribes.
California
California is home to the largest number of Native American tribes in the United States, with over 100 recognized tribes. The state’s vast geographical diversity, ranging from coastal regions to mountainous areas and deserts, has supported a wide range of indigenous cultures. The tribes in California include well-known names like the Yurok, Pomo, and Chumash, as well as many others that reflect the state’s complex history of settlement and displacement.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma has the second-highest number of Native American tribes, with 39 federally recognized tribes. Historically, the state became a destination for numerous tribes forcibly relocated during the Trail of Tears in the 1830s, including the Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, and Seminole. These tribes, often referred to as the “Five Civilized Tribes,” are based in Oklahoma, and the state has maintained strong cultural and political ties to its Native American communities.