The Changelings were as multiple tribes for a time, though many banded together to make underground civilizations, which were marked for explorers of their own kind to find.
Though, some tribes attempted to move to another area. They did not settle down, but rather became nomadic.
Unicorns began as tribes as well, and some banded together and estabished magic-driven communities. Though, contact had not been made with earth ponies…yet.
Earth ponies mainly stuck together in large groups, being wary of other clans but not exactly going to war. They built prosperous farming communities.
Pegasi, on the other hoof, were using wood and stones to make buildings to escape from the cold. Fire was especially essential. They had not yet discovered their ability to walk on clouds.