Canada’s rich cultural tapestry owes much to the First Nations, whose histories and traditions predate the arrival of European settlers. To truly understand the roots of Canadian society and the narratives often overlooked in mainstream history, delving into First Nations Canadian History is essential. These top 10 books not only illuminate the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of the Indigenous peoples but also showcase the diversity of their experiences across different regions and times. Whether you are a historian, student, or simply curious, these books are a window into the complex legacy of First Nations in Canada.
Author: Samantha Redfeather
Bio: Samantha Redfeather is a Métis historian and writer specializing in Indigenous histories of North America. With a passion for reclaiming and amplifying First Nations voices, her work focuses on the untold stories of Indigenous resilience.
Top 10 Best Books on First Nations Canadian History
10. Mohawk Interruptus: Political Life Across the Borders of Settler States by Audra Simpson
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (64 ratings)
Category: First Nations Canadian History
In Mohawk Interruptus, Audra Simpson explores the complexities of Mohawk identity and sovereignty in the face of settler colonialism. Through the lens of political anthropology, this book unpacks how the Mohawk people navigate life across the borders of Canada and the United States.
Why You’ll Love It:
This book provides a deep analysis of the ongoing resistance to colonial borders and brings a unique perspective on Indigenous sovereignty.
Fun Fact:
Audra Simpson is a member of the Kahnawake Mohawk Nation, bringing an insider’s perspective to this compelling narrative.
9. The Golden Spruce: A True Story of Myth, Madness, and Greed by John Vaillant
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4 out of 5 stars (1,327 ratings)
Category: First Nations Canadian History
The Golden Spruce tells the story of a sacred tree in Haida Gwaii and the man who felled it. The book blends environmental history, Indigenous mythology, and the consequences of colonial greed.
Why We Choose It:
John Vaillant masterfully intertwines the story of the Haida people with the environmental and social upheaval that has shaped their lands.
Fun Fact:
The Golden Spruce was a rare genetic anomaly, standing as a symbol of Indigenous resilience until its destruction in 1997.
8. Indigenous Methodologies: Characteristics, Conversations, and Contexts, Second Edition by Margaret Kovach
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 out of 5 stars (77 ratings)
Category: First Nations Canadian History
In this essential academic work, Margaret Kovach explores the Indigenous methodologies used in research and history writing. It provides a framework for conducting respectful and accurate research on First Nations topics.
Why You’ll Love It:
For anyone engaged in research or academic work, this book is an invaluable resource on how to approach Indigenous histories with integrity and respect.
Fun Fact:
Margaret Kovach is of Cree and Saulteaux heritage and is a leading voice in the field of Indigenous research methodologies.
7. The Canadian Sioux (Studies in the Anthropology of North American Indians) by James H. Howard
⭐⭐⭐ 3.5 out of 5 stars (4 ratings)
Category: First Nations Canadian History
This book offers a detailed anthropological study of the Sioux people who migrated to Canada following conflicts in the United States. It explores their culture, traditions, and adaptation to life in Canada.
Why We Choose It:
Howard’s book is one of the few that specifically focuses on the Canadian Sioux, making it an essential read for those interested in First Nations migrations.
Fun Fact:
The Sioux are better known for their historical presence in the U.S., but this book reveals their significant and lesser-known history in Canada.
6. Red River Girl: The Life and Death of Tina Fontaine by Joanna Jolly
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (231 ratings)
Category: First Nations Canadian History
Red River Girl tells the harrowing true story of Tina Fontaine, a young Indigenous girl whose tragic death ignited national conversations about violence against Indigenous women in Canada.
Why You’ll Love It:
This book is a heart-wrenching look at contemporary issues facing First Nations in Canada, specifically the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women.
Fun Fact:
Tina Fontaine’s case was one of the catalysts for the Canadian government to launch a national inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.
5. The First Frontier: The Forgotten History of Struggle, Savagery, and Endurance in Early America by Scott Weidensaul
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4 out of 5 stars (1,010 ratings)
Category: First Nations Canadian History
Although focused on early America, this book provides valuable insight into how First Nations communities interacted with European settlers in both the U.S. and Canada.
Why You’ll Love It:
This well-researched work helps readers understand the larger context of First Nations’ struggles during European colonization in North America.
Fun Fact:
The book covers the entire northeastern region, offering glimpses into the shared histories of First Nations across current U.S.-Canada borders.
4. Cannibalism, Headhunting, and Human Sacrifice in North America: A History Forgotten by George Franklin Feldman
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars (71 ratings)
Category: First Nations Canadian History
This provocative title delves into the often-taboo practices of some First Nations groups, offering a historical account of rituals long misunderstood by settlers.
Why We Choose It:
The book challenges misconceptions about First Nations customs, providing a nuanced view of cultural practices that were sensationalized by early colonizers.
Fun Fact:
Feldman’s research shows that many of these rituals were spiritual and not the barbaric acts they were portrayed as by European settlers.
3. Saint in the Wilderness: The Story of Isaac Jogues, Missionary and Martyr in the New World by Glenn D. Kittler
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4 out of 5 stars (45 ratings)
Category: First Nations Canadian History
This biography covers the life of Isaac Jogues, a French missionary whose work among the First Nations peoples of New France led to his eventual martyrdom.
Why You’ll Love It:
Kittler’s writing transports readers to a time of intense cultural exchanges and conflicts, offering a look at how First Nations and European settlers clashed and cooperated.
Fun Fact:
Isaac Jogues was canonized as a saint, yet his story is also one of cultural misunderstanding and the perils of missionary work in New France.
2. Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City by Tanya Talaga
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (879 ratings)
Category: First Nations Canadian History
This groundbreaking book investigates the deaths of seven Indigenous students in Thunder Bay, offering a poignant critique of systemic racism in Canada’s education and justice systems.
Why We Choose It:
Seven Fallen Feathers is both a powerful investigation and a testament to the need for reform in how First Nations issues are addressed in Canada.
Fun Fact:
The book received numerous awards, including the RBC Taylor Prize, cementing Tanya Talaga as a leading voice in Indigenous journalism.
1. A Year to Remember 1964: Time Travelling to 1964 Memorial Book, The Year You Were Born or You Got Married, Gifts for Unique Birthday For Grandma and … Guide: Flashback Series of Memorial Books by Edward Art Lab
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1 out of 5 stars (7 ratings)
Category: First Nations Canadian History
This nostalgic book offers a time-traveling experience to the year 1964, providing unique insights into Indigenous life during that period and major events that shaped Canadian history.
Why You’ll Love It:
With a blend of history and cultural milestones, this book gives readers a snapshot of Indigenous and Canadian life in 1964, offering a perfect gift for history lovers.
Fun Fact:
1964 was a pivotal year for Indigenous rights in Canada, with increased advocacy for treaty rights and recognition.
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