Mica Bay Incident facts for kids
The Mica Bay Incident was a disagreement over land and resources near Lake Superior in November 1849. It helped lead to the signing of the 1850 Robinson-Huron Treaty.
Why It Happened
Before the incident, there were many disagreements. Indigenous people were worried about their land rights. They were also concerned about mining companies taking minerals. The government and companies were moving onto their traditional lands.
What Happened
In 1849, a group of First Nations and Métis people were unhappy. Mining companies were digging for minerals on their land. This mining was happening without a proper agreement. It was also against an old rule called the 1763 Royal Proclamation. This rule said Indigenous people had rights to their land and resources.
In November 1849, the group traveled from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario to Mica Bay. Mica Bay is on the shore of Lake Superior. When they arrived, the group attacked copper mining sites. These sites belonged to the Quebec Mining Company. Their goal was to make the company leave their land. Over 100 soldiers were sent to stop the protest. In December, some of the leaders were arrested and held in Toronto.
Important leaders of the incident included Chief Shingawukonse of the Garden River First Nation. Others were Chief Nebenaigoching of the Batchewana First Nation, Chief Oshawana, Allan Macdonell, and Metcalfe.
What Happened Next
The Mica Bay Incident is known as an important event. It made the government finally talk about land agreements. This happened with Indigenous communities in the Lake Huron and Lake Superior regions. The Mica Bay Incident happened shortly before the Robinson Treaties were signed.
See also
- 1849 in Canada
