Alaska is a state with diverse culture and ethnicity. It is clear that over the years, many different people from different places have moved here and established roots. About 16 percent of Alaska's population is made up of Alaska Natives. In general, there are three groups of Alaska Natives: Eskimo, Indian, and Aleut. Alaska's Native people are divided into eleven distinct cultures and they speak 20 different languages. Many of Alaska's Natives have held on to their traditions, and with so many other cultures moving into the state, combined with the new industries and technologies taking hold of the state, there is an even greater need for the culture to be held onto and taught to future generations. You can learn more about Alaska's Native people at the Alaska Native Heritage Center.