Early 1700s | The first formal treaties are made with eastern First Nations as the English and French compete for control of the fur trade. |
1763 | In response to Chief pontiac’s war, an uprising by First Nations around forts in the Great Lakes region, King George III issues the Royal Proclamation of 1763, which confirms aboriginal rights and affirms that treaty making must precede European settlement. Over the next few decades, 41 treaties will be signed covering southern Ontario and parts of British Columbia. |
1812 | After the War of 1812, treaties between First Nations and the British open up much of Ontario for settlement. |
1867 | At Canadian Confederation, the responsibilities of the British Crown are transferred to the federal Government of Canada. |
1871–
1877 | The first wave of treaty signing between the Government of Canada and First Nations covers northwestern Ontario and the southeastern prairies. The treaties signed at this time, Treaty 1 to Treaty 7, are known as the Numbered Treaties. |
1899–
1921 | The second wave of Numbered Treaties, covering parts of northern Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan and southern parts of the Northwest Territories, starts with Treaty 8 and ends with Treaty 11. |
1927 | An amendment is added to the Indian Act which discourages land claims. Fines are levied against lawyers who raise funds for a claim or represent a First Nation in a claim against Canada. |
