Crees

Crees is not a standard term in English for a people or concept. The conventional term for the Indigenous group is Cree (plural Cree). The lowercase "crees" may appear as a misspelling or in nonstandard usage.

The Cree are one of the largest Indigenous peoples in Canada. They belong to the Algonquian language family and speak Cree, with dialects such as Plains Cree, Woods Cree, and Swampy Cree. Their communities span a wide geographic area, reflecting historical movements and adaptation to diverse environments.

Geographically, Cree-speaking groups have inhabited regions across northern and central North America, including areas of present-day Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and parts of the western subarctic. Traditionally, Cree societies were organized around bands and kin-based leadership, with social and ceremonial structures that guided daily life and collective decision-making.

Historically, the Cree engaged in extensive trade networks and interactions with European traders, other Indigenous nations, and subsequent colonial authorities. These exchanges influenced economic patterns, technology, and alliances, shaping Cree relations in the broader colonial world.

In contemporary times, Cree communities display a range of governance arrangements. Many operate under band councils within the Canadian federal framework, while some areas pursue self-government or treaty-based arrangements. Ongoing efforts focus on language and cultural preservation, including Cree language immersion in schools, media projects, and cultural programs that support transmission of traditions to younger generations.