Economic Aspects of the Indigenous Experience in Canada

Abstract

This text explores the economic history and economic potential of Indigenous peoples in Canada. It discusses which institutional arrangements hold them back economically and which institutions assist them going forward, and considers which norms Indigenous communities hold that inform their priorities and economic behaviour. Chapters 1 and 2 introduce the Indigenous Peoples of Canada – First Nations, Métis and Inuit – and their current demographic and income statistics. Chapters 3-12 describe their cultures, economies and geopolitics up until the late twentieth century. Chapters 13 and 14 discuss how discrimination against minorities can be modeled and measured. Finally, Chapters 15+ describe present-day issues in the economic development of Indigenous communities.

Note for Instructors: Instructors may wish to begin the term of study with presentations or readings on the peoples indigenous to the school’s location. As the course progresses, instructors can lead students to discover how the topics covered in the book apply to local communities past and present. Instructors can also make students aware of local opportunities for Indigenous – non-Indigenous interaction and cooperation. This text flows in chronological order until Chapter 12. Instructors should use their own discretion about whether and when they want to use Chapters 12-14. Chapter 15 picks up the historical thread. The use of talking circles and other discussion forums is recommended, as conversation is a traditional Indigenous teaching method, and the issues covered in this book are emotionally weighty.