Study topic
The fur trade and early explorers
The fur trade drove the exploration and early economy of Canada. Knowing the key explorers and dates supports many history questions.
Key facts to remember
- ◆ Jacques Cartier was the first European to explore the St. Lawrence River, in the 1530s, and named "Canada".
- ◆ Samuel de Champlain founded Quebec City in 1608.
- ◆ The fur trade, especially in beaver pelts, was central to the early economy.
- ◆ The Hudson's Bay Company was a major force in the fur trade and western exploration.
- ◆ The beaver became an official emblem of Canada because of the fur trade.