Saulteau

Saulteau refers to a historic Indigenous people located in the present-day Canadian province of British Columbia. Their traditional territory encompasses the areas around the Rocky Mountains, particularly the Kootenay region and extending into parts of Alberta. The Saulteau are historically associated with the Cree language family, though their precise linguistic affiliation has been a subject of scholarly discussion. They were known for their nomadic lifestyle, relying heavily on hunting, fishing, and gathering for sustenance. Their culture and traditions were deeply intertwined with the natural environment of their homeland.

Historically, the Saulteau were involved in trade networks with neighboring Indigenous groups and later with European fur traders. Their interactions with European settlers and the Canadian government led to significant changes in their way of life, including displacement from traditional lands and the eventual establishment of reserves. Today, descendants of the Saulteau people continue to maintain their cultural heritage and are organized into various First Nations communities, advocating for their rights and preserving their ancestral traditions. Their history is an important part of the broader narrative of Indigenous peoples in Western Canada.