The Mandans are a Native American tribe originally from the northern Great Plains, primarily located in what is now North Dakota. They are known for their agricultural practices, particularly the cultivation of crops like corn, beans, and squash. The Mandans lived in earth lodges and were skilled traders, often interacting with other tribes and European settlers. Historically, the Mandans faced significant challenges, including disease and conflicts, which greatly reduced their population in the 19th century. Today, they are part of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation, a federally recognized tribe that continues to preserve their cultural heritage and traditions.