Indigenous Communities
What is an Indigenous community?
A group of First Nations, Inuit, or Métis people who share a common culture, history, and land.
What were some consequences of early contact between Indigenous peoples and Europeans?
Spread of disease, loss of land, trade relationships, and cultural change.
The beaver is a symbol of Canada. Why do you think the beaver is symbolic of Canada’s history?
Because beavers were important in the fur trade, which helped build Canada’s economy.
How were the Coureurs de bois different from voyageurs?
Coureurs de bois were independent fur traders, while voyageurs were employed by fur companies.
What is scurvy and why did it affect so many European explorers?
A disease caused by a lack of vitamin C, often due to not eating fresh fruits or vegetables.
What is the role of an Indigenous Elder?
To share knowledge, teach traditions, and offer guidance to the community.
Which early community was often referred to as Vikings?
The Norse or Norsemen from Scandinavia.
What does the maple leaf represent in Canadian history?
It symbolizes the land and unity of Canada; it’s also found on the flag.
What was one of the earliest European settlements in North America?
L’Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland.
How did Indigenous medicine help European explorers survive?
Indigenous peoples shared natural remedies like spruce tea to treat illness.
What is a First Nation, and how is it different from Inuit and Métis?
First Nations are Indigenous peoples who are neither Inuit nor Métis. Inuit live in the Arctic, and Métis have mixed Indigenous and European ancestry.
What is the name of the healing drink that the Mi’kmaq gave European explorers to cure scurvy?
Spruce tea.
What is the significance of the canoe in early Canadian history?
Canoes were vital for travel and trade for both Indigenous peoples and European explorers.
What was the name of one of the first French colonies in New France in 1604, located near Quebec and the Maritime provinces?
Acadia
What were common diseases brought by Europeans?
Smallpox, measles, and influenza.
What are some traditional ways Indigenous people used natural resources?
They used animals for food and clothing, trees for shelter and tools, and plants for medicine.
How did the spread of European diseases impact Indigenous communities?
Many Indigenous people became sick and died because they had no immunity.
Why are wampum belts important in Indigenous cultures?
They were used to record agreements, stories, and history.
Who was Samuel de Champlain, and what was his role in early Canada?
A French explorer who founded Quebec and helped establish New France.
Why were Indigenous people more affected by European diseases?
They had never been exposed to these diseases and had no immunity.
How did Indigenous communities pass down knowledge before written language?
Through oral storytelling, songs, and teachings from Elders.
Why did European explorers want to find a route to Asia through North America?
To find faster trade routes for spices, silk, and other valuable goods.
What is the meaning behind the Inukshuk symbol?
It’s a stone figure used by Inuit to mark travel routes, sacred places, or as a guidepost.
What challenges did early settlers face when building communities in Canada?
Harsh weather, lack of food, conflict with Indigenous peoples, and disease.
How did Indigenous and European ideas about healing differ?
Indigenous healing used natural medicine and spiritual practices; Europeans often used scientific or religious approaches.