Through the Mackenzie Basin A Narrative of the Athabasca and Peace River Treaty Expedition of 1899

"Through the Mackenzie Basin" by Charles Mair is a historical narrative chronicling the 1899 Athabasca and Peace River Treaty Expedition. The book captures the socio-political atmosphere of the late 19th century, detailing the Canadian government's treaty negotiations with Indigenous peoples in the Mackenzie region. Mair sets the scene with the commission's arrival in Edmonton led by figures like Mr. Laird. The narrative explores the motivations behind the expedition, the logistical hurdles, and the delicate balance between the Canadian government and the Indigenous peoples rights. Mair also describes the beautiful landscape and diverse social scenes, all while highlighting the imminent changes to the Indigenous way of life due to the growing settler and miner population.