Chipewyan, Cree and Inuit Relations West of Hudson Bay, 1714-1955

Changing Chipewyan. Cree and Inuit inter-ethnic relations are reviewed in the theoretical framework of cultural ecology, utilizing historical sources, including the archives of the Hudson's Bay Company. Three phases are analyzed: First, at time of initial contact relations were generally hostile but conflict limited by differing environmental adaptations that tended to keep populations apart. Second, the deliberate peacemaking efforts of the HBC were aided by unanticipated consequences of the fur trade. Third, social distance was maintained in the period of peaceful co-existence and trade. The complexities of the periods are noted and analyzed.