Final answer:
The Israelites encountered multiple groups of inhabitants in Canaan, including Canaanites, Philistines, and possibly others from the broader collapse of the Bronze Age. The historical and archaeological records indicate complex socio-political dynamics in the region around the time of their arrival.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the Israelites arrived in Canaan, they encountered a region inhabited by various peoples, including the original Canaanites, the Philistines, and possibly other groups affected by the collapse of the Bronze Age. The Biblical narrative describes some of the Israelites' experiences in Canaan, such as their confrontations with local inhabitants under Joshua's military leadership.
Additionally, the Book of Judges details their settlement in the hills of Canaan and organization into twelve tribes. Oppression by the Philistines during this time led to the establishment of a united monarchy known as Israel with a king, starting with Saul and followed by David, who managed to subdue the Philistines.
Archeological findings align to some extent with the historical narrative found in the Bible, though they do cast doubt on the full extent of Joshua's conquest. Archaeology confirms that a group called Israel was present in Canaan by 1207 BCE, as per an Egyptian record from that time.