Fur Trade

Definition

The fur trade refers to the commercial activity of buying and selling animal furs. During the early colonial period, European colonizers in North America primarily engaged in this trade with Native Americans to obtain valuable furs for export back to Europe.

Related terms

Beaver pelts: Beaver pelts were one of the most sought-after furs during the fur trade because they were durable and in high demand for making hats.

Hudson's Bay Company: The Hudson's Bay Company was a British fur trading company that played a significant role in the fur trade industry, especially in Canada.

Fur trappers: Fur trappers were individuals who ventured into wilderness areas to trap animals for their valuable furs. They played an essential role in supplying furs to traders for the fur trade.