Fur Trade

Learning Goal We are learning about how the fur trade began and how it impacted the lives of First Nation peoples and European explores

The voyage of Jacques Cartier (1531 to 1541) lead to the French starting European expansion into the eastern part of Canada and began permanent colonies (e.g., settling permanently) They were searching for a Northwest Passage of Asia, gold. Metals and land when they discovered a valuable product: fur.

Beaver Hats From about 1550, hats made from beaver fur were in high demand in Europe Beavers were hunted to almost to extinction in Europe and Russia so they needed to find a new place (this also meant wealth for French King) Fur trade began in Port Royal in 1604 in Acadia French established an alliance with Chief Membertou (Mi’kmaq tribe) They traded fur for European goods like metal tools and cloth

Beaver Hats

Samuel de Champlain Founded Port Royal in 1608 with Pier de Monts Returned in 1608 and established a fur trade post in Quebec and brought over a small number of settlers Men who obtained furs illegally were arrested At the time, Compagnie des Habitants had rights over trading and selling furs

Groseillers England financed his expedition because French not interested Set sail for Hudson Bay on his ship Brought back large cargoes of beaver pelts to England Prince Rupert saw this success and in 1670 established the Hudson’s Bay Company with his partners

Seven Years’ War France and England often at war during this time and their conflicts spilled over to colonies in North America The Seven Years’ War (1756-1763) was final of these wars and resulted in British victory. British promised First Nations people land and protection of their traditions The Quebec Act allowed French to keep their laws and traditions With the end of the Seven Years’ War came the end of the French fur trade