Historically, it was thought that the culture of the Coast was essentially a continuation of Asian influences. However, current anthropological research suggests that it actually originated from ancient Eskimo societies and made its way to the coast through inland migration. This shift in understanding highlights the complexities surrounding cultural development in this region.

Evidence shows that the Indigenous peoples of Washington's northwestern coast have maintained their civilization for approximately six thousand years, with some estimates pointing to human presence in the Pacific Northwest as far back as twelve thousand years. This long history underscores the rich cultural heritage of the area, challenging previous assumptions about its origins.