Indigenous people have lived in Newfoundland

Indigenous people have lived in Newfoundland for thousands of years, long before European contact. The indigenous people of Newfoundland are primarily the Beothuk and Mi'kmaq.

The Beothuk people inhabited the island of Newfoundland for several centuries, possibly as early as 2,000 years ago. They had a distinct culture and language and lived off the land by hunting, fishing, and gathering. Unfortunately, the Beothuk population declined significantly after the arrival of European settlers due to conflict, disease, and a loss of traditional resources. The last known Beothuk individual, a woman named Shanawdithit, died in 1829, marking the extinction of the Beothuk people.

The Mi'kmaq people also had a presence in Newfoundland, and they continue to live in the region today. The Mi'kmaq have a long history in the Atlantic region, including Newfoundland, and have maintained their cultural traditions and connections to the land.

It's important to acknowledge that indigenous people have complex histories and relationships with the land, and their presence in Newfoundland predates European colonization.