In this MuseumLink module, you can explore Native American life in Illinois. To the best of our knowledge, Native Americans first arrived in Illinois more than 12,000 years ago. They were the only people in Illinois until French explorers arrived in the late 1600s. What was Native American life like 12,000 years ago? How has it changed? Answers to these questions, and many others, may be found by navigating back in time. All you need for this trip is curiosity.