The Pribilofs were discovered in 1786 by Russian fur traders. They landed first on St. George, and named this larger island to the north St. Peter and St. Paul Island. On Saint Paul Island ownership of fur seal pelts is now prohibited except for subsistence purposes. Local residents are working to develop a commercial fishing industry. 66.1% of the population are Alaska Natives. A federally recognized tribe is located in the community. St. Paul is predominantly Aleut, with a small Eskimo and Indian population. Although subsistence has not historically been the focus of the local culture, today halibut and seal are shared and exchanged with relatives living in other communities for salmon and reindeer. The Russian Orthodox Church plays a strong role in community cohesiveness.