Trade and Transformation

This unit explores the complex economic networks of Native Peoples in North America, tracing the transition from pre-contact continental trade to the disruptive impacts of the Trans-Atlantic fur trade and colonial economic dependency. Students will analyze archaeological evidence, simulate economic shifts, and evaluate how trade served as both a cultural bridge and a colonial weapon.

Ancient Exchange Networks

Students analyze archaeological evidence, such as marine shells and obsidian found far from their sources, to reconstruct vast Indigenous trade routes that spanned North America before European contact. They will explore the logistics of continental exchange without beasts of burden and the cultural significance of traded goods.

Simulating the Fur Trade Economy

In a gamified simulation, students take on roles of Indigenous trappers, European traders, and intermediaries. They experience the shifting values of beaver pelts, manufactured goods (metal tools, guns), and the concept of credit/debt in the fur trade.

Analyzing the Impact of European Technology

Students investigate how specific items (iron pots, firearms, wool blankets) replaced traditional technologies and changed daily life. They discuss the concept of 'unintended consequences' regarding the loss of traditional crafting skills.

Beaver Wars and Economic Conflict

Students study the Beaver Wars to understand how economic competition for hunting grounds led to expanded warfare between the Iroquois Confederacy and neighbors. They map the territorial shifts resulting from these economic conflicts.

Economic Dependency as Colonial Policy

Students analyze colonial records to see how trade debt was used to coerce land cessions. They write a reflection on how economic systems can be used as weapons of political control.