The Canaanites were an ancient people who inhabited the land of Canaan, located in the Levant region, which includes modern-day Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, and parts of Syria and Jordan. They are known for their city-states and contributions to trade and culture in the ancient Near East. The Canaanites practiced polytheism, worshiping a pantheon of deities, and their society significantly influenced surrounding civilizations, including the Israelites. Their history is documented in various ancient texts, including the Hebrew Bible.