As a model of multiculturalism, Winnipeg’s history reflects the important role immigration has played in the city’s development.
The junction of the Red and the Assiniboine Rivers, now known as The Forks, was an important trading spot for First Nations tribes in 4000 BC. Cree, Ojibwa and the Assiniboin Nations traded furs, shell beads and other goods on this spot.
In 1738, French explorer and trader La Verendrye was the first European to reach this meeting place at the junction of the rivers. Then, in 1812, Lord Selkirk convinced 105 Scottish farmers to come and form the Red River Settlement at The Forks. This started an immigration boom that solidified the future of Winnipeg.
Today, over 200 ethnic groups speaking over 100 languages are represented here. Winnipeg’s level of cultural achievement and flourishing arts scene is largely attributed to this rich mixture of ethnic populations.