Understanding the History, Spirit, and Intent of Treaties in Canada

Understanding the History, Spirit, and Intent of Treaties in Canada

"We are all Treaty People." This foundational principle guides our exploration of the agreements that shaped the map of Canada. This course examines the historical and contemporary significance of Treaties, moving from the early Peace and Friendship Treaties on the East Coast to the Numbered Treaties across the West, and into modern-day comprehensive land claims. We will analyze the divergent worldviews that met at the treaty table: the Crown’s perspective of land surrender and the Indigenous perspective of sacred, perpetual sharing. By examining the written text alongside Indigenous Oral Traditions, learners will gain a holistic understanding of what it means to uphold the "spirit and intent" of these agreements in the 21st century.