What is the difference between a coureur de bois and a voyageur?

Voyageurs were the canoe transportation workers in organized, licensed long-distance transportation of furs and trade goods in the interior of the continent. Coureurs des bois were entrepreneur woodsman engaged in all aspects of fur trading rather than being focused on just the transportation of fur trade goods.

Who were the coureur des bois and the voyageurs?

In the 17th century, voyageurs were often coureurs des bois — unlicensed traders responsible for delivering trade goods from suppliers to Indigenous peoples. The implementation of the trading licence system in 1681 set voyageurs apart from coureurs des bois, who were then considered outlaws of sorts.

Who were the coureurs de bois and what did they do?

The independent coureurs des bois played an important role in the European exploration of the continent. They were also vital in establishing trading contacts with Indigenous peoples. Coureurs des bois were itinerant, unlicenced fur traders from New France.

What did the Voyageurs eat for breakfast?

As they paddled through Georgian Bay, the men saw hardly anyone for weeks, and they set off at first light, paddling for several hours before stopping for a breakfast of oatmeal, cornmeal, or beans.

What did the coureur de bois wear?

Their fashion choices separate overtime namely because the coureurs des bois were no longer around and the trading companies took over. During the colder months, they would wear a large coat made of deer, moose, or caribou skin with a large belt around the middle. Belts could be made of leather or colorful wool.

Who were couriers Dubois?

The coureurs des bois (or coureurs de bois), translated as wood runners or runners in the woods, were travelling, unlicensed fur traders in New France between 1650 and 1700. They primarily sought fur from beavers, but also foxes, otters, ermines, muskrats, deer and moose.

Did the voyageurs get paid?

The wintering voyageurs were paid once a year at Grand Portage, but they were paid in goods or in vouchers for merchandise from the company-run story.