"This is an outstanding book. As in his earlier books and articles, Gibson's scholarship and methodology are meticulous. His antiquarian zeal for small facts is combined with an ability to combine them and derive firm evidence ... he indicates the significance of the trade, methods, and changing fortunes to better effect than Howay's other earlier treatments. The work is therefore a major contribution, at once a comprehensive survey and modern approach." Richard Pierce, Visiting Professor of History, University of Alaska.

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"A masterful study. Hitherto no good analysis has been done on the economic side of these affairs. Gibson's judicious treatment is to be applauded. Based on meticulous research and extensive knowledge of primary and secondary sources ... the scholarship is exceedingly sound. This book will become the standard source unlikely to be superseded. Gibson's work does for the Northwest Coast of North America what Harold Innis's did for the Atlantic fisheries." Barry Gough, Department of History, Wilfrid Laurier University.

James R. Gibson is a Professor in the Department of Geography, York University.

Winner
John Lyman Award for Oceanic Study
North American Society for Oceanic Study (1994)

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Winner
Regional History Certificate of Merit (Yukon & BC)
Canadian Historical Association (1993)

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Winner
Keith Matthews Award for Best Book
Canadian Nautical Research Society (1993)

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Winner
B.C. Lieutenant-Governor's Medal for Historical Writing
B.C. Historical Federation (1993)

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Finalist
Raymond Klibansky Prize (Humanities)
Federation for the Humanities and Social Sciences (1993)

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