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The establishment of New France created a lucrative environment for trappers, traders, and fur companies by enhancing the demand for fur, particularly beaver pelts, in Europe. The French government supported exploration and established trade relationships with Indigenous peoples, facilitating access to rich fur-bearing regions. This led to increased competition among traders and the expansion of trade networks, ultimately transforming the fur trade into a cornerstone of the colonial economy. However, it also resulted in intense resource extraction and significant impacts on Indigenous communities and their land.
Many of the early trappers/fur traders in America were French.
France
Trappers, traders, and emigrants on their way to California
Fort Ross was built by Russian trappers in 1812. Located in what is now California, it served as a base for Russian fur traders and a ranching outpost. The establishment of Fort Ross marked a significant expansion of Russian influence in North America during the early 19th century.
Fur traders and trappers from the American Fur Company.
Trappers, traders and Russian Orthodox missionaries.
Indians
Fur traders and trappers from the American Fur Company.