Welcome to the inaugural episode of Gettin’ Historical With It, a student-led podcast produced in partnership with the Collaborative Digital Research Space and the Department of Historical Studies at the University of Toronto Mississauga. Hosted by Nihal Naqvi, with co-host Helky Herrera, this episode features an insightful conversation with Professor Brian Gettler about his book, Colonialism’s Currency: Money, State, and First Nations in Canada, 1820-1950.

In this episode, we delve into how colonial powers utilized various forms of currency—such as treaty payments, welfare provisions, and the Hudson's Bay Company's "made beaver" system—to assert political and economic control over Indigenous communities. Professor Gettler sheds light on the role of money in shaping colonial sovereignty, Indigenous displacement, and economic dependency, while also connecting these historical dynamics to contemporary discussions on systemic racism in Canada.

Join us as we explore the complex intersections of colonialism, finance, and Indigenous resistance in Canada's history. For those interested in a deeper dive, you can find Professor Gettler's book on Amazon: Colonialism's Currency: Money, State, and First Nations in Canada, 1820-1950.

Don't forget to subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of Gettin’ Historical With It!