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Wampum, made of white and purple Atlantic coast seashells, had considerable value to Aboriginals in eastern Canada for ornament and ceremony and to non-Aboriginals for currency, particularly in the 17th and 18th centuries. Wampum was threaded on string or woven into belts and sashes. Particular patterns symbolized events, alliances and people, and wampum was used to form relationships, propose marriage, atone for murder or ransom captives. Wampum was closely linked with the FUR TRADE in eastern Canada, where it was used as a trade good.
Before Confederation in 1867 some Aboriginal groups indicated their assent to certain INDIAN TREATIES by presenting wampum to crown officials. The Two Row Wampum Belt, or Kahswenhtha, of the Iroquois symbolizes an agreement of mutual respect and peace between themselves and European newcomers to North America. The principles embodied in the belt are a set of rules governing the behaviour of the 2 groups. The wampum belt stipulates that neither group will force their laws, traditions, customs or language on each other, but will coexist peacefully.
 Wampum BeltWampum was used by the native people as currency and to record treaties and settle disputes (courtesy NMC/CMC/575-620).
 Huron ChiefNicholas Isawanhanhi, Huron chief, shown wearing the regimental coat commonly awarded to native trading captains during the fur trade. Painting by Chatfield (courtesy Library and Archives Canada/C-38948).
Author
RENÉ R. GADACZ
Links to Other Sites
Currency Museum
What do playing cards, teeth, and sea shells have in common? Find out at this fascinating online exhibit about the history of money. Features an extensive image database of notes, documents, coins, and tokens from Canada and around the world. Also provides an interactive timeline and other learning resources for students and their teachers. From the Bank of Canada.
Four Directions Teachings
Elders and traditional teachers representing the Blackfoot, Cree, Ojibwe, Mohawk, and Mi’kmaq share teachings about their culture. Animated graphics visualize each of the oral teachings. This website also provides biographies of participants, transcripts, and extensive learning resources for students and their teachers. In English with French subtitles.
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