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Katelyn Z.
Lethbridge, Alberta
Southern Alberta Regional Heritage Fair
Beaver - Canada's National Animal
Why did the Beaver become Canada's National Animal? Beaver fur was a very popular fur during the time of the fur trade which was between 1500-1800 in Europe and before Canada became a country. This hard-working rodent's pelt enticed many people to come to this land and many stayed building communities which would lead to the establishment of our country.
What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?
The most interesting thing I learned was that during the fur trade over 100,000 beaver pelts were traded in just one year!
What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?
The beaver is important to Canada's History because of its role in the fur trade. When we learn about history we can be very grateful for the modern day things we have and also learn from the hard working people who lived before us.
How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?
During the fur trade time, people traded furs for goods. Now we trade money for goods. It is interesting to think about how people lived without stores to buy what they need. I guess the buffalo could be like a walking Walmart department store for the First Nations people. They were very resourceful.