For nearly 200 years the Fur Trade transformed economy and culture of Wisconsin. French explorers traveled the land, coming to Wisconsin as traders seeking wealth and adventure. They developed unique relations with the Wisconsin American Indian peoples, who became the primary gatherers of furs.
In this unit we will learn the history of European trade with Wisconsin’s American Indians. We will also explore the trading system that was established and the impact of this industry on American Indians and the environment.
WI Content Standards
Intermediate (Grades 3-5): SS.BH1.b, SS.BH3.a | SS.Econ1.a-b, SS.Econ2.b | SS.Geog2.b
Objectives
Students will be able to describe the different roles and identities of peoples in the Wisconsin Fur Trade.
Explain why (the push/pull factors) the French Traders came to Wisconsin.
Identify the barriers to trade and interactions between people (language, market needs, culture).
Define the good and consumers of the Fur Trade
Discuss the outcomes of the Fur Trade era for the different people involved.
Video & Recorded Media
Wisconsin in the Fur Trade Part 1. Run time 8:15 minutes
Wisconsin in the Fur Trade Part 2. Run time 14:04 minutes
Activities and Downloads
Voyageur Song & Canoe Activity
Trade Goods Math Activity Answer Sheet
Primary and Secondary Resources
Map of the Great Lakes Region, 1687
“A Wisconsin Fur Trader’s Journal,” 1804-1805
American Fur Trading Company’s building, 1827
Map of the Wisconsin Territory, 1836
And Beyond, additional sources of information
