Until recently, we were taught that Canada's history started when European explorers first arrived on these shores. In fact, the first people have been here since the Ice Age and were already accomplished traders, artisans, farmers, and marine hunters. Now, thanks to the new compelling title I Have Lived Here Since the World Began: An Illustrated History of Canada's Native People the fascinating record-spanning 12,000 years into today's headlines—is finally revealed.


Arthur J. Ray, one of Canada's foremost historians of Native people, skillfully weaves Native legends of their first encounters with Europeans into his description of the impact the settlers had. He describes the various economic arrangements Native men and women entered into with the newcomers, the assault on Native culture in the Industrial Age, and the relentless efforts of Native groups to find a place in the new world order.


Illustrated throughout with superb photographs, maps, historical engravings, and contemporary native art, this is a dynamic and timely history of Canada's first inhabitants and their ongoing relationships with those who followed.