Fur Seals, Nuu-chah-nulth and Pelagic Sealing in British Columbia (1860s-1910s)

In Canada in recent decades, Indigenous Peoples have been recognizing publicly their relationship with the environment as one of the fundamental features of their cultural identity. The project will show that historically Nuu-chah-nulth/marine mammal relationship was much more complex than commonly understood. While whaling is today recognized as central in their identity, history, and culture their relationship with pelagic mammals is more sophisticated. However, as Chief Earl George of the Ahousaht has noted, sea fur seals today are largely unknown among younger generations, despite communities relied on them in 19th century. Therefore, the project will get a light on what seems to be forgotten: how Nuu-chah-nulth/fur seal relationship evolved at a time when natives-settler interactions were very strong.

Faculty Supervisor:

John Lutz

Student:

Partner:

Università del Piemonte Orientale

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Environmental Science and Technology; Sustainability & the Environment

University:

University of Victoria

Program: