What was exchanged in the fur trade between Native Canadians and Europeans?

The fur trade was a significant historical interaction between Native Canadians and European settlers, primarily involving the exchange of metal goods for furs. This trade evolved in the 16th and 17th centuries as Europeans sought the high-value pelts of beavers, otters, and other animals for use in hats, coats, and other fashionable items.

Native Canadians, skilled in trapping and navigating the wilderness, provided the furs, while Europeans offered a range of metal goods such as knives, pots, and other tools in return. These metal items were not only useful but also highly sought after by Indigenous peoples, who had traditionally used materials available in their environment.

By engaging in this exchange, both parties benefited: Native Canadians gained access to new technologies that made their daily lives easier, while Europeans were able to acquire valuable resources. This dynamic established a complex trading relationship that significantly impacted both societies and laid the groundwork for future interactions between Indigenous peoples and European settlers.