How might we learn about Indigenous peoples’ experiences with European trade if we do not have primary sources from their perspectives?(1 point)

Question

Responses

We have no way to learn about Indigenous peoples’ experiences if they did not leave any written 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.
We can read European sources critically or look for material objects that might give some insights into Indigenous peoples’ experiences.

We can create documents based on our own best guesses of what peoples’ experiences must have been.
We can create documents based on our own best guesses of what peoples’ experiences must have been.

We can trust almost everything European writers tell us about Indigenous peoples because they are official records.

Answer 1

The most reliable response is:

We can read European sources critically or look for material objects that might give some insights into Indigenous peoples’ experiences.

This approach acknowledges the potential biases in European accounts while also emphasizing the importance of analyzing artifacts, trade goods, and other material evidence that can provide a fuller understanding of Indigenous peoples' experiences with European trade.