Metis Culture
The Western Metis in the 19th century was an exceedingly cultured group of people whose heritage heavily influenced their everyday lives. To illustrate, the Metis came from all these divergent backgrounds, namely French, English, Scottish, Cree, Ojibwe and more. In addition, French-Canadian fur traders came to West Canada, and married Natives thus creating the "Western Metis." Likewise, Metis children were exposed to both Aboriginal beliefs and Catholicism. Further, the name Metis comes from the French word "mixed" which represents the backgrounds of the Metis. Moreover, the Metis spoke a language called "Michif" which is a combination of both French and Native words and grammar. On the other hand, even the attire of the Metis tribe is impacted by their culture. Correspondingly, the Metis people wear clothes that are European style but incorporate aboriginal qualities, such as quills and beads. Similarly, the Metis sash is a representation of the Western-Metis, sewn together from different backgrounds. In conclusion, in the 19th century the Western Metis were a tremendously varying group made up of people from different backgrounds, creating an immensely cultivated tribe.
A group of Metis people doing the "Red River Jig."