As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, there were approximately 5 million Native Americans (also called American Indians, First Nations, or Indigenous peoples) in the United States and around 1.7 million Indigenous peoples in Canada. Please note that these numbers may have changed since then, so I recommend checking the latest population statistics for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

In the United States, there are 574 federally recognized Native American tribes, while in Canada, there are over 600 First Nations communities, which are typically categorized into more than 50 distinct First Nations. It's important to note that these numbers can change over time, as tribes and nations may gain or lose federal recognition or be reclassified. Additionally, there are state-recognized tribes in the U.S. and non-status Indigenous groups in Canada that are not included in these counts.

Well-Known Native American Tribes and First Nations

It's difficult to rank Native American tribes or First Nations by popularity, as popularity can be subjective and may vary depending on factors like historical significance, cultural contributions, and visibility in the media. However, I can provide a list of some well-known Native American tribes and First Nations in the United States and Canada based on population, historical impact, and cultural presence:

• Navajo Nation (United States) - The Navajo Nation is the largest federally recognized tribe in the United States, with a population of over 300,000 members. They are primarily located in the southwestern states of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah.
• Cherokee Nation (United States) - The Cherokee Nation is one of the largest and most well-known tribes in the United States, with a significant population and cultural presence in Oklahoma, North Carolina, and other parts of the country.
• Ojibwe (Anishinaabe) (United States and Canada) - The Ojibwe people, also known as the Anishinaabe, are one of the largest Indigenous groups in North America, with communities in the Great Lakes region of the United States and Canada.
• Sioux Nation (United States) - The Sioux Nation is composed of three major divisions: the Dakota, Nakota, and Lakota. The Sioux have a rich cultural and historical presence, particularly in the Great Plains region.
• Iroquois Confederacy (United States and Canada) - The Iroquois Confederacy, also known as the Haudenosaunee, is a political and cultural union of six Indigenous nations: Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca, and Tuscarora.
• Cree (Canada) - The Cree Nation is one of the largest Indigenous groups in Canada, with communities primarily located in the provinces of Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta.
• Inuit (Canada) - The Inuit people are Indigenous to the Arctic regions of Canada, Alaska, and Greenland, with a strong cultural presence in Canada's northern territories, particularly Nunavut.
• Haida (Canada) - The Haida Nation is Indigenous to the Haida Gwaii archipelago off the coast of British Columbia, with a rich cultural heritage and unique artistic traditions.
• Tlingit (United States and Canada) - The Tlingit people are Indigenous to the Pacific Northwest Coast, with communities in Alaska and British Columbia. They are known for their complex social structure, art, and traditional craftsmanship.
• Pueblo (United States) - The Pueblo peoples are a group of Native American tribes living in the southwestern United States, primarily in New Mexico and Arizona. They are known for their distinct adobe architecture and traditional pottery.

Please note that this list is not exhaustive and does not encompass the full diversity of Native American tribes and First Nations.

Native American Tribes and First Nations Population Numbers

It's essential to note that the population numbers for each Native nation mentioned above can change over time. As of my knowledge update in September 2021, here are approximate population numbers for the Indigenous groups listed:

• Navajo Nation (United States): Over 300,000 members
• Cherokee Nation (United States): Over 360,000 enrolled members in the Cherokee Nation and around 16,000 enrolled members in the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
• Ojibwe (Anishinaabe) (United States and Canada): Approximately 200,000 members, but this number varies based on the specific communities and locations considered.
• Sioux Nation (United States): Around 170,000 members across the Dakota, Nakota, and Lakota divisions.
• Iroquois Confederacy (United States and Canada): Approximately 125,000 members across the six nations, but this number can vary depending on sources and tribal enrollment.
• Cree (Canada): Around 200,000 members, but this number may vary depending on the specific communities and locations considered.
• Inuit (Canada): Approximately 65,000 members, mainly residing in the Arctic regions of Canada.
• Haida (Canada): Around 4,000 members, but this number can vary depending on sources and tribal enrollment.
• Tlingit (United States and Canada): Approximately 20,000 to 25,000 members, but this number may vary depending on the specific communities and locations considered.
• Pueblo (United States): Approximately 75,000 members across the various Pueblo tribes in the southwestern United States.

Please note that these population numbers are approximate and may not be up to date. It's also worth considering that there may be differences in counting methodologies, which can affect the accuracy of these numbers.

Challenges faced by some Native American Tribes and First Nations

It is challenging to identify the poorest Native American tribes or First Nations due to differences in economic opportunities, resource distribution, and infrastructure within and between various Indigenous communities. Many tribes and First Nations face socio-economic challenges, including high rates of poverty, unemployment, and inadequate access to education and healthcare services.

However, some reservations in the United States have been identified as having particularly high levels of poverty. For example:

1. Pine Ridge Reservation (Oglala Lakota Sioux) in South Dakota is often cited as one of the poorest reservations in the United States. They have high rates of unemployment and poverty, and the community faces significant challenges in terms of housing, infrastructure, and access to resources.
2. Navajo Nation (United States) has faced poverty and unemployment rates higher than the national average. Despite being the largest federally recognized tribe in terms of both land area and population, the Navajo Nation has struggled with economic development and infrastructure.
3. Rosebud Sioux Reservation (Sicangu Lakota Sioux) in South Dakota also faces high poverty rates, unemployment, and challenges related to housing, education, and healthcare.

In Canada, some First Nations communities face similar challenges:

1. Attawapiskat First Nation (Cree) in Ontario has experienced crises related to housing, water quality, and mental health.
2. Kashechewan First Nation (Cree) in Ontario has struggled with overcrowding, inadequate housing, and infrastructure issues, including problems related to water quality.

It is important to recognize that poverty and economic challenges among Indigenous communities are complex issues deeply rooted in historical, social, and political factors. Efforts to address these challenges require comprehensive, culturally sensitive approaches that engage Indigenous communities and respect their sovereignty and rights.

Economically Successful Native American Tribes and First Nations

It is difficult to provide a definitive list of the "richest" Native American tribes or First Nations in terms of overall wealth, as many factors contribute to a community's economic well-being. Some Indigenous nations generate significant income through natural resources, gaming and casinos, tourism, and other business ventures. Here is a list of some tribes and First Nations that are often considered economically successful, but please note that this list is not exhaustive and may not represent all economically prosperous Indigenous communities:

1. Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (United States): The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community operates a successful gaming business in Minnesota, which has generated considerable revenue for the tribe.
2. Seminole Tribe of Florida (United States): The Seminole Tribe of Florida owns and operates a number of successful casinos and other business ventures, including the Hard Rock International brand.
3. Pequot Tribal Nation (United States): The Pequot Tribal Nation, located in Connecticut, has seen significant economic success through its gaming operation, Foxwoods Resort Casino.
4. Oneida Indian Nation (United States): The Oneida Indian Nation has benefited from several business ventures, including its Turning Stone Resort Casino in New York.
5. Puyallup Tribe (United States): The Puyallup Tribe in Washington state has experienced economic growth through the development of a casino, along with other businesses and investments.
6. Morongo Band of Mission Indians (United States): The Morongo Band of Mission Indians, located in California, has seen economic success from its Morongo Casino, Resort & Spa, and other business ventures.
7. Tsuut'ina Nation (Canada): The Tsuut'ina Nation near Calgary, Alberta, has experienced economic growth through land development, retail, and entertainment projects, such as the Taza development and the Grey Eagle Resort & Casino.
8. Musqueam Indian Band (Canada): The Musqueam Indian Band, located in British Columbia, has diversified its economic development through real estate, resource management, and other business ventures.
9. Cowichan Tribes (Canada): The Cowichan Tribes in British Columbia have experienced economic success through investments in real estate, fisheries, forestry, and other industries.
10. Osoyoos Indian Band (Canada): The Osoyoos Indian Band in British Columbia has developed a successful economic base through ventures in real estate, tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy.

Please note that this list is not exhaustive and that economic success among Native nations can be fluid and subject to change. Additionally, it is important to recognize that while these nations may have achieved economic success in certain areas, they may still face socio-economic challenges within their communities.

Best Industries for Native American Tribes and First Nations

The best industries for Native American tribes and First Nations depend on factors such as the available natural resources, location, infrastructure, and cultural values of each community. It is essential to develop industries that respect and preserve the environment and Indigenous cultural heritage while promoting economic growth and self-sufficiency. Some potential industries that could be suitable for Native land include:

1. Renewable energy: Wind, solar, and hydroelectric power generation projects can provide a sustainable source of income and create jobs for Indigenous communities. These projects can help reduce dependency on non-renewable energy sources and contribute to climate change mitigation.
2. Sustainable agriculture: Traditional and innovative agricultural practices such as organic farming, permaculture, and agroforestry can provide food and income for Native communities while preserving and regenerating the land. Hemp farming, as you mentioned, is a growing industry that can offer a range of products, from textiles to biodegradable plastics and biofuel.
3. Eco-tourism and cultural tourism: Native American tribes and First Nations can develop eco-tourism initiatives that showcase their cultural heritage, unique landscapes, and wildlife. This industry can generate revenue while promoting cultural preservation, environmental conservation, and education.
4. Forestry and sustainable resource management: Indigenous communities can leverage their traditional knowledge and expertise to manage forests and other natural resources sustainably. By engaging in value-added processing (e.g., timber, non-timber forest products), communities can generate income and support local economic development.
5. Aquaculture and fisheries: Sustainable fish farming and fisheries management can provide food, employment, and income for Native communities, while ensuring the long-term health of aquatic ecosystems.
6. Art, crafts, and cultural enterprises: Indigenous artists and craftspeople can promote and sell their work, preserving and sharing their cultural heritage while generating income.
7. Technology and telecommunications: Developing reliable internet and telecommunications infrastructure on Indigenous lands can create new economic opportunities, including e-commerce, remote work, and digital services.
8. Education and healthcare: Establishing and expanding culturally sensitive educational and healthcare services within Indigenous communities can create jobs, promote well-being, and empower future generations.

The best approach for each Indigenous community will depend on its unique circumstances, including its values, goals, resources, and capacity. It is vital for Native American tribes and First Nations to develop industries in collaboration with community members and to respect their sovereignty and rights.