Canadian history and attitudes have shaped the First Peoples of Canada’s identity. They have caused most to view the First Nations through the lens of a stereotype. For example, when one thinks of the First Nations, a totem pole is quick to come to mind. However, many First Nations groups do not have such poles. In short, the historical attitudes of Canadians have lumped all First Nations into one mental group, creating ignorance of the amazing diversity that exists in the First Peoples of Canada’s cultures.