Canadian Whiskey is the prized, pride of Canada and renowned around the world. Canadian dignitaries and citizens alike, gift bottles of the golden brew when they are wanting to make an impression to international parties. The well-known and finely crafted liquor symbolizes a timely process and centuries of perfection. The often forgotten symbol of Canadian Whiskey’s heritage is the original trade brew that the First Nations called ‘firewater’. A whiskey that is said to be the demise of the First Nation communities in the 1800’s and even today. A whiskey that prompted the creation of the North West Mounted Police. A whiskey that is blamed for obliterating the buffalo herd population in Canada, a livelihood for the Indian people. Growing up in a British Columbia community surrounded by Indian Reserves, I played hockey and went to school with many First Nations kids. I have heard stories and witnessed the intense addiction to alcohol that these people have, with my friends, their parents and grandparents. It is tragic to hear their stories of alcoholism, residential schools, loss of land and …show more content…
Additionally, the industrialization created a demand for the buffalo pelts for the production of machinery belts. The 2 companies were in competition with each other until they were amalgamated into one company in 1822. [4] The competition with each other to sell to the Europeans also became a competition to reach the First Nations people first and appeal to them for trading. The trading incentive was European rum and brandy that was diluted in a ratio of 7:1 and packaged in skins or small kegs. Even though most of the furs were traded for tools, guns, blankets other convenience items, the ‘high wine’ was still the first trade item of the biennial event.