The Pottawatomi are a Native American tribe originally from the Great Lakes region, particularly in present-day Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois. They are part of the larger Algonquian language family and have a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional practices, storytelling, and crafts. Historically, the Pottawatomi were semi-nomadic, relying on hunting, fishing, and agriculture for sustenance. They played a significant role in early American history, often engaging in trade and alliances with European settlers. Today, many Pottawatomi people are organized into federally recognized tribes, continuing to preserve their culture and traditions.