Lesson Plan
Curated OER

History: All About Trappers

For Teachers 4th - 5th
Students hold a "rendezvous," role-playing as trappers gathering supplies for the upcoming year in the mountains. They trade simulated beaver pelts for supplies such as bullets, tea, flour, and sugar. They share storytelling with each...
Article
Other

Adriaen Block, the Discovery of Long Island Sound and the New Netherlands Colony

For Students 9th - 10th
An interesting and comprehensive essay on Adriaen Block, the development of New Netherlands, Dutch trade, and the impact of the Little Ice Age in Europe on fur trade in North America.
Handout
Carnegie Museum of Natural History

Carnegie Museum of Natural History: The Iroquois of the Northeast

For Students 3rd - 8th
This site provides a brief look at the history of the Iroquois. The site has information about food, handwork, survival, and modern life.
Handout
The History Cat

The History Cat: The Beaver Wars

For Students 9th - 10th
Discusses the wars the Iroquois fought with other tribes and with the French in the last half of the 17th century, in their efforts to win control of the fur trade. A peace treaty was signed in 1701 to end the fighting.