GREAT SLAVE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "Great Slave" refers to both a geographic feature and a historical region, primarily found in the northern parts of Canada. Geographically, the Great Slave is a vast lake located in the Northwest Territories, measuring approximately 2,014 square miles. It is the second-largest lake in Canada, following the Great Bear Lake, and is part of the Mackenzie River drainage system. The lake acquired its name from the historic interpretation that it was named after the Slavey Indigenous people, who inhabited the region.
Historically, the region known as the Great Slave included both the lake and the surrounding lands. This area was traditionally occupied by several Indigenous groups, mainly the Slavey people, representing various First Nations communities. Their livelihoods depended on fishing, hunting, and trapping, while they maintained a deep connection with the land and water.
In modern times, the Great Slave region has gained significance due to its natural resources, including minerals and petroleum reserves. It also plays a vital role in transportation, as the Mackenzie River system provides access to remote areas of Canada's north. Additionally, the Great Slave Lake attracts tourism due to its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and opportunities for cultural exchanges with Indigenous communities.
In summary, the Great Slave refers to a notable lake and surrounding region in northern Canada, both celebrated for their historic and contemporary significance, indigenous presence, natural resources, and recreational potential.
Common Misspellings for GREAT SLAVE
- freat slave
- vreat slave
- breat slave
- hreat slave
- yreat slave
- treat slave
- geeat slave
- gdeat slave
- gfeat slave
- gteat slave
- g5eat slave
- g4eat slave
- grwat slave
- grsat slave
- grdat slave
- grrat slave
- gr4at slave
- gr3at slave
- grezt slave
- grest slave
Etymology of GREAT SLAVE
The word "Great Slave" has its origins in the historical exploration and exploitation of Canada's Arctic region. The name can be traced back to the early 18th century when European explorers began mapping the northern parts of North America.
The term "Slave" in "Great Slave" is not related to the same meaning as "slave" in the context of forced labor. Rather, it originated from the word "sclave", a French adaptation of the Cree word "awokan" or "awokun" which means "dog". The Cree people were the indigenous inhabitants of the region.
The name "Great Slave" was used to refer to the lake located in the southern Northwest Territories of Canada - present-day Great Slave Lake. The lake was a crucial transportation route for fur traders during the fur trade era, and thus it played a significant role in the exploration and settlement of the region.
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