Ugyuligmiut facts for kids

The Ugyuligmiut were a group of Copper Inuit people who lived in the Canadian Arctic. They were found in the Northwest Territories, specifically on Victoria Island near Minto Inlet and on Banks Island in the Aulavik National Park area.

Who Were the Ugyuligmiut?

The Ugyuligmiut were a specific band of the Copper Inuit. They lived in a very cold and challenging environment. Their name helps us understand where they lived.

Where They Lived

The Ugyuligmiut lived in two main areas. One was on Victoria Island, north of Minto Inlet. The other was on Banks Island, which is now part of Aulavik National Park. These areas are in the far north of Canada.

Life in the Arctic

Life in the Arctic was tough. The Ugyuligmiut were skilled hunters and fishers. They adapted to the cold climate. They relied on animals like seals and caribou for food and clothing.

Early Discoveries

Explorers from Europe first learned about the Ugyuligmiut in the mid-1800s. These explorers were on voyages to the Arctic.

Noted by Explorers

The Ugyuligmiut living near Minto Inlet were seen by Sir Richard Collinson. They were also noted by Sir Robert McClure. These explorers were on their Arctic journeys in the 1800s. They wrote about the people they met.

Their Disappearance

By the early 1900s, the Ugyuligmiut people were no longer present. This was discovered by another explorer.

Stefansson's Findings

In 1914, explorer Vilhjalmur Stefansson visited the area. The Inuit people on Victoria Island told him about the Ugyuligmiut. They said the Ugyuligmiut used to be a large group. However, they had all disappeared. The local Inuit believed they died out due to very difficult times.