Who made up the name first nations?

The term "First Nations" was popularized in Canada during the 1970s as a way to refer to Indigenous peoples, particularly those who are not Inuit or Métis. It was adopted by Indigenous leaders and communities to emphasize their distinct status and rights as the original inhabitants of the land. The name reflects a movement towards self-identification and recognition of Indigenous sovereignty. The term has since gained broader use across North America and beyond.