1. 51,524
6,691
80,857
1,111,566
1,396,091
252,047
330,857

2. Confederation and Canada’s First Nations
Prevailing Attitudes:
Europeans as ‘superior’
First Nations should assimilate (live like Europeans)
At the time of Confederation:
First Nations not included in negotiations for Confederation
Why is this problematic?

3. Canadian Expansion
In order to reach his dream of expanding and settling the West, Macdonald had to first deal with the ‘Indian Problem’
Solution:
Sign treaties that exchange land for certain rights/supports

5. Stipulations: Promises or reserves of land
Schools built on the new reserves
Farm implements, seeds, farm animals
Instruction on farming techniques
The prohibition of the liquor trade
Providing medicine
Granting hunting and fishing rights forever
Lump sum cash payments
Annual cash payments
Assistance in case of famine or pestilence

7. Important to Note:
British Columbia is still mostly unceded territory (no treaties were ever signed).
Many of the promises made in the numbered treaties were not followed through on.
Beginning of transition from ‘partner’ relationship to one of paternalism

8. Indian Act, 1876
Legislation designed to help the Government administrate First Nations.
Made by parliament with NO consultation of First Nations peoples
A clear goal: assimilation, integration and eventual abolition of reserves and of special rights for the First Nations.