Alaska Native People

A group of male individuals are walking and singing while carrying a totem pole. Some of the tribal members are wearing tribal hats and vests. The primary colors are black and red, although there is one person wearing a tan colored vest.
Tribal members, partners, and NPS staff carefully carry the Eagle Pole to the Tribal House site.

NPS Photo

Alaska Native people have lived with the land long before it became a state or any national parks were established. From long ago through present day, the stories of Alaska Natives are wide-ranging and exciting. Many of these stories offer lessons in creativity, resilience, community, and much more. Browse the articles below to learn about remarkable Alaska Natives and their stories.

Featured Stories

  • A woman with short hair uses a broad, sharp tool to scrape an animal hide.
    Ada Blackjack

    Ada Blackjack was an Inupiat woman hailed as a heroine after being stranded for two years on the remote Wrangel Island.

  • A woman wearing traditional, colorful clothing sits in front of a red door.
    Mary Olympic

    Mary was a respected Aleut/Yup’ik elder, passing on her knowledge to her family and community. Mary was considered a matriarch of Igiugig.

  • In a historic scene, three men stand on a bank beside a river. Each wears a hat and button up shirt.
    Chief Charley

    Chief Charley was the leader of a group of Han Gwich'in Athabaskans living along the Yukon River.

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    Tags: alaska alaska native indigenous people

    Last updated: April 9, 2024

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