Which term describes a French-Canadian fur trader who went into the forest to trade directly with Indigenous peoples?

• A. Coureurs de bois
• B. Voyagers
• C. Missionaries
• D. Pioneers

Answer: (A)

This term describes a fur trader who ventured into the forest to trade directly with Indigenous peoples. In New France, coureurs de bois were independent traders who traveled deep into the woods, often living among Indigenous communities, to exchange European goods for furs like beaver pelts. They operated outside official trading posts and helped expand the reach of the fur economy, sometimes facing restrictions from colonial authorities, but playing a crucial role in linking Indigenous sources of furs with European markets. The other options don’t fit: missionaries focus on spreading religion, pioneers are people who settle new lands, and voyageurs are the licensed transporters who moved furs and goods rather than engaging in independent forest trading.