Trading Posts

I really learned a lot about Plains Indian trading this week. I think, yet again, it is so interesting that no one hears the real successes of these tribes. The fact that the Comanche and Siouan tribes had extensive control and power in their regions is very significant. Especially because their power extended not only over area tribes, but over Europeans as well. We've learned a lot about powerful trade in the East, but most of the time Plains Indians are only seen as mounted warriors rather than efficient and successful traders.

I also thought the role of women in trading was important because they were very involved in the process. It is really sad that intermarriage ended up being much more devastating that it was helpful.