The Northwest coast of the Pacific Ocean has been home to many Native nations for thousands of years. The waters, mountains, and forests of this isolated region provided food and shelter for groups such as the Tlingit, the Haida, and the Kwakiutl. The topics covered in Nations of the Northwest Coast include: the distinct customs, cultures, and beliefs of the various nations; dwellings used in different seasons and locales; fishing and the use of coastal plants and animals; traditional handicrafts, including carving and weaving; the organisation of families, clans, and moieties; and the impact of the arrival of the Europeans.