Aleutian Islanders (Unangan)
The Unangan or Aleut (approximately 17,000, fewer than 1,000 fluent speakers) inhabit the Aleutian Islands—a 1,200-mile volcanic arc experiencing constant storms, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and some of Earth's worst weather. They endure hurricane-force winds (williwaws), freezing rain, fog, seismic activity, and extreme isolation. Traditional sea hunting in baidarkas (kayaks), underground barabaras (sod houses), sophisticated maritime culture, and survival in the "Cradle of Storms" define this resilient North Pacific people.