Beaver fur trade

The Beaver fur trade was a significant economic activity from the 16th to 19th centuries, primarily involving European settlers and Indigenous peoples. It centered on collecting beaver pelts, which were highly valued in Europe for making fashionable hats. Traders exchanged goods like cloth, tools, and firearms for beaver pelts, creating a widespread network across North America. This trade influenced exploration, settlement, and even territorial disputes, notably impacting Indigenous communities’ lifestyles and territories. The beaver fur trade played a crucial role in shaping early North American history and economic development.