A Brief History of the Fur Trade
The fur trade in the Great Lakes region of North America represents a pivotal chapter in the continent’s history, occurring over more than a century and profoundly shaping the economic, social, and cultural landscapes of the region. Its origins can be traced back to the early interactions between European explorers and indigenous peoples inhabiting the vast territories surrounding the Great Lakes. European nations, particularly the French and later the British, recognized the immense value of the fur-bearing animals–particularly the beaver–native to the region, sparking a fervent competition to establish trade relations and exploit this lucrative resource. French explorers, missionaries, and...
