110 likes | 209 Views
This article explores the beginning of the fur trade in North America, focusing on the arrival of Europeans, their impact on the First Nations peoples, the popularity of furs, the role of the First Nations in trade, and key historical events such as Port Royal and Quebec City. It delves into the economy, alliances, and challenges faced by groups like the Huron. Additionally, it discusses the role of Coureurs de Bois and the establishment of the Hudson's Bay Company and the North West Trading Company. Overall, it provides insights into the significant influence of the fur trade on the social and economic landscape of North America.
E N D
The Beginning of the Fur Trade Socials 9
Arrival of European • Europeans began hunting and farming in land that was once used only by the First Nations. • They were having their land taken by them, and this was being done without permission.
European Impact on the Natives • Europeans brought diseases to the First Nations. • Measles • Influenza • Pertussis (whooping cough) • Chickenpox • The First Nations peoples had never been exposed to such illness (lacked immunity) and as a result many First Nation people died.
Popularity of Furs • Fancy furs from Canada became very popular back in Europe. • Wolf, lynx, beaver
The Role of First Nations • First Nations peoples would bring in furs • Often they would trade the furs for items that were worth a a lot less than the value of the furs. • Hatchets, pots, beads, knives • Supplemented income from fishing and hunting
Port Royal • Samuel de Champlain • Established 1605 • Company of Good Cheer • cooking club • Acadia • Port Royal eventually led to the creation of Acadia
Quebec City • Samuel de Champlain • Established 1608 • Fur trade alliances • Algonkians, Montagnais ally with the French • Don’t trade furs with the English
The Huron • Economy based on farming • Allied with Champlain against Iroquois • Pre-existing uneasy relationship with Algonkians and Montagnais (also Champlain allies) • By 1616 the Huron supplied a major source of furs for the French
Learning the Fur Trade • The Fur Trade was a very big business. • Soon, Europeans learned how to trap furs from the First Nation people • Trading Posts were built throughout Canada
Coureurs de Bois • Young Male Fur Traders • Who did not work for a specific company • Travelled inland to find furs at the source • Bribed officials to turn a blind eye • Explorers • Searched for the Northwest Passage
Two Fur Trade Companies • Hudson’s Bay Company • English Royal Charter • 1670 • North West Trading Company • Began as 16 fur traders in Montreal • French • 1779