For thousands of years, the Chumash people have made their home on California's rich coast. Their story is one of survival and strength. Forced to work in Spanish missions in the 1700s, the Chumash lost much of their original way of life. Their struggle continued in the 1800s, when Chumash land fell under Mexican control and they faced oppression, poverty, and homelessness. After many years of hardship, the Chumash have regained some of their traditions. Many still live in their native homeland, and they look forward to the future with optimism and pride.