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In the 18th century, the Iroquois
controlled the hunting grounds of western Pennsylvania where
John Buxton lives. They rarely granted a commission for a white
(or European) to hunt there. They had learned the value of animal
pelts in trade and had become dependent upon it. In The Fur Trader,
a buyer proudly displays his purchases on this day of trade.
Deer hides (the white bundles in the foreground) provided leather
and were the item traded for most in bulk. Specialty furs like
beaver and fox would bring a higher price when he, in turn, brings
them to market. All in all, it is a profitable day for this frontiersman.
In the background, Indians examine
the various goods that they will seek in trade for the pelts
they have provided. Guns, powder, blankets, copper pots, mirrors
where popular items. In due course, the Indians traded away much
more than they bargained for. Native Americans were self-sufficient
people prior to the arrival of the Europeans and the idea of
trading for goods. Ultimately, it changed the way they lived. |