History and Origins
The film excerpts in this theme look at the creation myth of the Wendat, the life of the Mi’kmaq before European settlement, the origin of the word “Canada,” and the question of territory under the English and French regimes.
Excerpts
Our Nationhood
1
2
Our Nationhood
2003, Director: Obomsawin, Alanis
excerpt 2 2 min 44 s
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Described video (DV)
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1. How did Jacques Cartier and his men respond to their first encounter with the Mi’kmaq? What were the stated goals of Cartier and his successors regarding the Mi’kmaq people?
2. Describe the pressures that resulted in the diminishment of Mi'kmaq territory throughout eastern Canada.
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Short Description
This film recounts the difficult battle waged by the Listuguj Mi’kmaqs against the Government of Quebec in 1998 for the right to manage their own natural resources. The film also highlights some of the achievements of this community located in the Gaspe Peninsula.