Indigenous peoples' rights and entitlements as established and recognized through treaties with colonial or government authorities, including land rights, hunting and fishing rights, and self-governance
Treaty Adhesion
The process by which Indigenous nations or groups voluntarily agree to join or adhere to an existing treaty negotiated between other Indigenous nations or groups and colonial or government authorities
Two-row wampum
A symbolic Indigenous belt or treaty consisting of two parallel rows of purple and white beads, representing the coexistence of Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in North America based on principles of mutual respect, non-interference, and peaceful coexistence
Kiciwamanawak
A Cree term referring to the interconnectedness and interdependence of all living beings and the natural world, emphasizing reciprocal relationships and responsibilities
Bimaadiziwin
An Anishinaabe concept meaning "the good life" or "living in a good way," encompassing holistic well-being, harmony with the land and community, and adherence to cultural values and teachings
Gdoo-naaganina
An Ojibwe term referring to "our understanding," emphasizing Indigenous ways of knowing, cultural knowledge, and spiritual beliefs
British North America Act
The constitutional law that established Canada as a federal dominion in 1867, laying the foundation for Canadian governance and relations with Indigenous peoples
Davin Report
A government report authored by Nicholas Flood Davin in 1879, recommending the establishment of residential schools in Canada to assimilate Indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture
Treaty 1
A treaty signed in 1871 between the Crown and several First Nations in what is now Manitoba, establishing terms for Indigenous land rights, reserves, annuities, and other provisions
Pre-Confederation Treaties
Took place pre-1867 in various regions of present day Canada..
Agreements between Indigenous nations and colonial powers before the establishment of Canada as a nation
To establish peace, trade relations, and land arrangements between Indigenous peoples and colonial authorities.
The Early British Land Treaties
Took place in the 18th and 19th centuries in Eastern Canada (the Maritimes and Quebec)
Treaties negotiated between British colonial authorities and Indigenous nations in North America
To secure British control over Indigenous lands and resources, often through land cessions and alliances.
The Post-Confederation Land Treaties
Took place in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in Western Canada (Prairie provinces and British Columbia).
Treaties negotiated between the Canadian government and Indigenous nations after Confederation in 1867
To secure Canadian sovereignty, facilitate settlement, and exploit natural resources, often at the expense of Indigenous land rights and autonomy.
War of 1812
From 1812 to 1815 in various locations along the Canada-U.S. border.
British, Canadian, and Indigenous peoples against the United States.
Military conflict due to disputes over territory, trade, and national sovereignty.
Métis scrip
Took place in Western Canada particularly prairie provinces in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Land scrip or certificates issued to Métis individuals as compensation for land rights surrendered in the aftermath of land disputes and treaties
To address Métis land claims and grievances, often resulting from the failure of the Canadian government to fulfill treaty obligations and protect Métis land rights.
Numbered Treaties Crown Obligations
The numbered treaties established obligations and commitments on the part of the Crown (government) to provide annuities, reserves, and other benefits to Indigenous signatories in exchange for ceding land and rights.
Numbered Treaties Status Indian Obligations
The numbered treaties also imposed obligations and responsibilities on Indigenous signatories, including surrendering land, respecting government authority, and adhering to treaty provisions.
Corruption in Métis scrip
Métis scrip issuance was marred by corruption, including fraudulent land transactions, exploitation of Métis individuals, and mismanagement of land claims by government officials and speculators.
Treaty benefit for newcomers
Treaties often provided benefits and incentives for settlers and newcomers, including land grants, agricultural assistance, and economic opportunities, while often disregarding or undermining Indigenous land rights and sovereignty.