Lesson 2 “The Fur Trade”

The French came to search for fur The French came to search for fur. They trapped and skinned beaver, mink, and otter to make coats and hats.

What did Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet do? They went to explore the Mississippi River. Traveled all the way to the shore of Lake Michigan. Fur trading posts were set up along Midwest rivers and lake after Jolliet and Marquette’s expedition.

What two major Midwestern cities began as forts or trading posts? Saulte Saint Marie Chicago

Effects of the Fur Trade on the Midwest 1. Trading posts were set up where fur traders settled. 2. Native Americans settled at the forts to farm and sell crops. 3. Missions were established around trading posts. 4. Communities and major cities grew around the forts.

Lesson 2 Review Why did the French come to the Midwest in the 1600’s? What did Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet do? How did the French fur trade influence the settlement of the Midwest?