A History of Interactions Between Early Settlers and First Nations Peoples

  • Aug 30, 1492

    Columbus Arrives!

    Columbus Arrives!
    This was the beginning of an adventure that would lead to many hardships within the North American world.
  • May 23, 1534

    Positive or Negative Interactions?

    Watch this Canadian Heritage Video to see how we represent these early interactions. Do you think this is accurate? Initial interactions were not well received. Jacques Cartier’s quest along the St. Lawrence River was guided by many First Nations Peoples whom are not often mentioned in history. Only recently have credits been given amongst Canadians.
  • More along the Saint Lawrence River

    Samuel de Champlain was able to persuade First Nations to allow him to settle along the Saint Lawrence River. He would soon found France's first permanent colony in Canada at Quebec City.
  • Assimilation

    Do you know what assimilation means? Click here to find out! In the late 1700s, the settlers attempted to have the First Nations peoples assimilate to European culture. Do you believe it's fair to take away someone's culture?
  • Metis

    Metis
    As a result of the integration between the French, English, and First Nations peoples, the Metis were born. The Metis often spoke French or a language called Michif that was a blend of several languages. The Metis played a pivotal role in the fur trade and industry of in the 18th and 19th centuries. What kind of an impact do you think this made towards creating the Canada you live in now?
  • World Wars I and II

    Did you know that more than 6,000 Canadian First Nations, Inuit and Métis served with British forces during First World War and Second World War? This signifies a unity that has not often existed between Canadian settlers and the Aboriginal peoples. In fact, many First Nations peoples do not consider themselves citizens of Canada. Why do you think this is so?
  • Pocahontas - The Disney Movie

    Pocahontas - The Disney Movie
    Disney releases the movie "Pocahontas", which follows a similar story to "Dances With Wolves". Do you believe that Pocahontas is historically accurate?
  • Olympics!

    Olympics!
    Many Canadians were thrilled to showcase our culture at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Did you see the opening ceremonies? This will take you to a video of the ceremonies. Have you every experienced First Nations culture? Is this the first time you've seen this kind of dancing?