Indigenous peoples have been mining minerals and metals centuries before the arrival of Europeans. These minerals serve as culturally significant materials. They are essential to cultural and spiritual practices.
Minerals are used for making tools, weapons, adornments, art and other artifacts. It is evident that silver, copper, and iron were some of the earliest minerals to be mined by Indigenous peoples in Canada. Mineral trade among Indigenous peoples has been documented as early as 6000 years ago with a copper trade in the Lake Superior region. (AFN, 2001).
Figure 1: Bracelet, Late Archaic, Lake Superior, 3,000–4,000 years ago, Native copper. Canadian Museum of History, DiJa-1:34
Europeans came to what is now called Canada as early as the 16th century. The first European mine developed was a New Brunswick coal mine in 1639. (AFN) Very early explorers like Cartier and Frobisher encountered mineral resources in Canada. However initial discoveries were disappointing. The 17th and 18th centuries saw increased interest in mining, with discoveries of coal, iron, silver, and copper.
Source: Fraser Canyon Gold Rush Map of Deposits Library and Archives Canada
The 20th century was a period of significant transformation for the Canadian mining industry. Technological advancements, allowed for the exploitation of deeper and more complex ore bodies. Many provinces began to make formal Industry organizations throughout this era. Throughout the century, mining experienced periods of boom and bust, influenced by global economic conditions and commodity prices. As the century progressed, there was a growing emphasis on environmental sustainability and social responsibility, leading to stricter regulations and a shift towards more sustainable mining practices. Today, Canada remains a leader of global leader and producer of minerals and metals in the world.
The 19th century marked a pivotal period in Canadian mining history. Miners explored Canada looking for coal, gold, and base metal deposits. The exploration for extractable goods was driven by the demand to build trans-continental railways from east to west. (Sandlos and Keeling, 2022). With the discovery of precious metals and other essential minerals, Canada saw a boom of mining activity throughout the region. Gold rushes, such as the Fraser Canyon and Cariboo gold rushes, attracted prospectors from around the world, fueling economic growth and stimulating the development of mining communities and infrastructure. The iconic Klondike Gold Rush further solidified Canada's reputation as a land of mineral wealth. These discoveries laid the foundation for the country's mining industry, setting the stage for future growth and prosperity.
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