What are the 11 indigenous nations of Quebec?

Quebec is home to a rich diversity of Indigenous nations, each with a unique language, history and traditions. In total, there are 11 recognized nations that make up the Indigenous cultural fabric of the province. They are divided primarily into two major linguistic groups, the Algonquian and the Iroquoian, with a significant Inuit presence in northern Quebec. Here is an overview of the Indigenous nations of Quebec and their locations.

The Algonquian Nations

1. Anicinabe (Algonquins)

Located mainly in the Outaouais and Abitibi-Témiscamingue regions, the Algonquins have a long history in these regions. Their language, Algonquin, is at the heart of their identity.

2. Atikamekw

Living mainly in the Haute-Mauricie region, the Atikamekw are known for their close connection with the forest and nature, which play a central role in their traditional way of life.

3. Cree (Eeyou)

The Cree are settled in the James Bay region, known as Eeyou Istchee. They are one of the largest indigenous nations in Quebec and continue to promote their vibrant culture.

4. Innus (Montagnais)

Spread across the Côte-Nord and Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, the Innu have a culture marked by a rich oral tradition and a history linked to hunting and the fur trade.

5. Maliseet

Living mainly in the Lower St. Lawrence, the Maliseet are few in number in Quebec, but they play an important role in the preservation of their language and ancestral culture.

6. Micmacs (Mi'kmaq)

Settled on the Gaspé Peninsula, the Micmacs are known for their maritime skills and their dynamic culture, rooted in their relationship with the sea.

7. Naskapis

Living in northeastern Quebec, near the Labrador border, the Naskapis have a rich history and a traditional way of life centered on hunting and fishing.

The Iroquoian Nations

1. Mohawks

The Mohawks are primarily located in the communities of Kahnawake, Kanesatake and Akwesasne, near Montreal and on the Ontario border. Their culture is centered on a strong sense of community and political organization.

The Inuit Nation

1. Inuit

The Inuit are found in the Nunavik region of northern Quebec. Their way of life is closely tied to the Arctic climate, and their culture continues to evolve despite the challenges posed by climate change.

Another nation recognized

1. Huron-Wendat

Located primarily in Wendake, near Quebec City, the Huron-Wendat have a long history of resilience. Their culture and language continue to thrive in the region.

Quebec's Indigenous nations are an essential part of the province's cultural heritage. Their linguistic and cultural diversity enriches not only Quebec, but also the rest of Canada and the world.

Sources:

Government of Quebec - Secretariat for Aboriginal Affairs : Information on Aboriginal nations in Quebec.
Source: affairsautochtones.gouv.qc.ca

Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador : Profile of Aboriginal Nations.
Source: apnql.com

Library and Archives Canada : History of the Aboriginal Peoples of Canada.

Source: bac-lac.gc.ca