The term "Eskimos" refers to a group of Indigenous people inhabiting the circumpolar regions of arctic Alaska, Canada, Greenland, and Siberia. Also known as Inuit or Yupik, the Eskimos are historically and culturally diverse, with distinct linguistic and cultural variations based on their geographical and ancestral heritage.
The Eskimos have adapted to extreme cold environments, developing unique customs, traditions, and technologies to thrive in their surroundings. Their traditional subsistence practices mainly revolve around hunting, fishing, and gathering. Historically, they have relied on the hunting of marine mammals like seals, whales, and walruses, as well as land animals such as caribou. Fishing has been another significant source of sustenance, with fish species like salmon and Arctic char being crucial to their diet.
Traditionally, Eskimos have lived in small, tightly knit communities called settlements or camps. These settlements are often located close to water bodies, enabling access to hunting and fishing grounds. The communities are intricately connected through familial and social networks, with a strong emphasis on sharing and cooperation.
Throughout the years, Eskimo societies have faced challenges due to colonialism, forced assimilation, and the impacts of climate change on their traditional ways of life. However, efforts have been made to revitalize and preserve their cultural heritage, including language, traditional knowledge, and skills.
It is essential to note that the term "Eskimo" is not universally embraced by all indigenous communities in the Arctic. Some groups prefer to be called Inuit or Yupik, as Eskimo was once used as a derogatory term. It is always respectful to use the preferred name chosen by the specific community in question.
