Who lived in America before Europeans arrived?

Native Americans inhabited the land now known as the United States long before the arrival of European explorers and settlers. They are recognized as the original inhabitants of North America, with diverse cultures, languages, and societies that developed over thousands of years. This prior existence laid the foundation for the country's history and heritage.

The presence of Native Americans is significant as it represents the first wave of human settlement in the Americas, with many tribes having established complex communities and trade networks across different regions. Their histories and cultures continue to influence the social fabric of the United States today. The arrival of Europeans marked a significant change, leading to the exploration, colonization, and often, the displacement of Native peoples.

While Europeans, Asians, and Africans have all contributed to the history of America, they arrived after Native Americans had already established themselves in the region.