by Frederick J Turner. 1889. 98p

The document discusses the impact of French traders on Native American tribes in the Northwest, emphasizing how these traders provided weapons and goods that fostered dependency among Indigenous peoples. This relationship significantly altered the dynamics of power and trade in the region, as Indigenous groups began to rely on European goods for their survival and economic activities.

French traders, including notable figures like La Salle, established trading posts to promote peace and commerce with local tribes. These posts served as vital hubs for trade, facilitating the exchange of furs and other goods while also influencing the social and political structures of the Indigenous communities. The interactions between French traders and Native Americans were complex, often characterized by both cooperation and conflict.

The fur trade emerged as a significant economic driver, shaping relationships between French and English traders and impacting the broader geopolitical landscape. The document highlights the cultural exchange and tensions that arose from these interactions, illustrating the ongoing struggle between civilization and savagery in the region. This historical context provides insight into the lasting effects of colonial trade practices on Indigenous societies.