People of the lower Athabasca

The history of Northern Alberta and the natural resources of the region have led to a greatly varied population. The aboriginal peoples of the region, including Chipewyan, Cree and Dene First Nations groups and Métis; the fur traders and merchants of the pre-industrial era; and the migrant workers from all over Canada and from around the globe, weave a rich cultural and historical landscape that make the region what it is today.

The People of the lower Athabasca region are explored through:

• Aboriginal Peoples of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo;
• Communities of the Athabasca; and
• Traditional Knowlege.

This module of the RAMP website learning materials focuses on the History of the Region, provides an introduction to the communities of the Athabasca and covers the subject of Traditional Knowledge and its role in preserving cultural and traditional resources and ensuring good governance in the the context of industrial development.

To view a historical timeline of the Athabasca region, view the interactive people timeline.