The Rise of Mountain Men and the Fur Trade

This chapter explores the evolution of American market hunters from long hunters to mountain men, highlighting their significant role in the fur trade, especially with beaver and buffalo pelts. It focuses on historical figures like John Coulter, his experiences during the Lewis and Clark expedition, and the competitive dynamics that American traders faced against established entities like the Hudson's Bay Company. The narrative sheds light on the complexities of trade relationships with Indigenous tribes, revealing the tensions between traditional hunting practices and the emerging American fur trade.