Metis Adaptation

Metis people created and adapted many items for the new world. The new
world demanded individuals with entrepreneurial spirit and adaptation
to the climate and hostile living conditions. Metis people adapted
many items to facilitate their needs. In every aspect of life the
Metis adjusted European technology to that of the prairies. The Indian
had no knowledge of the wheel, but because of their European ancestry
the Metis knew of it and some may have even observed it in action as
transportation in vehicles in Eastern Canada, as well as used in
wheelbarrows at the larger fur trading posts. The cart that emerged as
being so useful on the prairies was later developed in the Red River
Valley. Yet, the cart, as with most things associated with the Metis,
was not invented, but, rather, it was a modification of the iron and
wood carts common to Quebec. Through adaptation and necessity the
Metis People in Canada have evolved a rich heritage and culture that
is very much alive today.