Coastanoan

The Coastanoan are a group of Indigenous peoples who historically inhabited the coastal region of central California. Their traditional territory extended from the San Francisco Bay south to the Big Sur coast. The term "Coastanoan" is an exonym, meaning it was given to them by outsiders, in this case, Spanish missionaries. The indigenous peoples themselves referred to themselves by various tribal names, such as the Mutsun, Rumsen, and Ohlone.

These groups shared linguistic similarities, belonging to the Utian language family, although dialects varied. Their subsistence practices were based on the rich natural resources of the coast, relying on acorns, shellfish, fish, and game. They lived in relatively small, autonomous villages, often organized into larger political units. Social structures were generally egalitarian, with leadership often based on skill and influence.

The arrival of Spanish missionaries in the late 18th century marked a profound disruption to Coastanoan life. Missions were established throughout their territory, leading to forced labor, cultural assimilation, and a significant decline in population due to disease and violence. Many Coastanoan people were integrated into the mission system, while others resisted or fled.

In the post-mission era, Coastanoan descendants continued to face challenges related to land loss and cultural suppression. Today, efforts are underway by various tribal groups to revitalize their languages, traditions, and cultural heritage, and to assert their ongoing presence and rights as Indigenous peoples of California.