285: Canada: Beaver Wars

The podcast explores the historical significance of beavers in Canada, linking the animal to the country's identity and economic history. It traces the beaver's presence from the giant Castoroides to its role in shaping the landscape and its importance to indigenous peoples, who utilized it for fur, meat, and tools. The conversation details the European fur trade, the Beaver Wars among native tribes vying for control, and the Hudson's Bay Company's vast territory. The discussion also covers the near extinction of beavers due to the demand for beaver felt hats and the conservation efforts spearheaded by Grey Owl, later revealed to be Archibald Belaney from Hastings, whose work contributed to the resurgence of beaver populations.