A Preliminary Study of Acculturation Among the Cree Indians of Winisk, Ontario

Abstract

Reports a study in summer 1958 of cultural changes resulting from establishment of a radar base in the Hudson Bay area of northern Ontario. The Indians' former life and contacts with whites as hunters and trappers are described, also their experiences as wage earners at the base. Among the changes are year-round residence in Winisk village, displacement of the family as the basic unit of production, and disappearance of hunting skills as the main factor in social prestige. Despite certain undesirable aspects, as substitution of canned food for fresh meat, loss of parental control over children, deterioration of public morality, etc., the new way of life is preferred by the Indians because of the greater economic security and the stimulation of community living.