How might we learn about Indigenous peoples’ experiences with European trade if we do not have primary sources from their perspectives?

Question

We can trust almost anything European writers tell us about Indigenous peoples because they are official records
We have no way to learn about Indigenous peoples’ experiences if they did not leave any written records
We can read European sources critically or look for material objects that might give some insights into Indigenous peoples’ experiences.

Answer 1

The best approach to learning about Indigenous peoples’ experiences with European trade, particularly when primary sources from their perspectives are lacking, is to read European sources critically or look for material objects that might provide insights into Indigenous peoples’ experiences.

Critical reading of European sources involves analyzing the biases, perspectives, and purposes of the writers. Understanding the context in which these sources were created can reveal both what they might tell about Indigenous peoples and what they might obscure or misrepresent. Furthermore, examining artifacts, tools, trade items, and other material culture can provide valuable insights into Indigenous economic practices, social structures, and interactions with European traders.

Additionally, interdisciplinary approaches, such as archaeology, anthropology, and oral histories from Indigenous communities, can also enrich our understanding by providing diverse perspectives and filling in gaps where written records may be absent.