Clothing and Accessories:
* Hats: Beaver felt was highly prized for its warmth, durability, and water resistance, making it ideal for hats.
* Coats: Beaver fur was used to make warm and luxurious coats, especially in cold climates.
* Gloves: Beaver fur's softness and dexterity made it suitable for gloves.
* Boots and Shoes: Beaver fur lined boots and shoes for warmth and comfort.
* Blankets: Beaver fur was used to make blankets, especially for travelers and those living in cold climates.
Trade and Commerce:
* Currency: Beaver pelts were a valuable commodity in the fur trade, used as a form of currency in North America.
* Bartering: Beaver pelts were exchanged for other goods, such as tools, weapons, and food.
* International Trade: Beaver fur was a key export from North America, contributing to the development of global trade.
Other Uses:
* Furniture: Beaver fur was used to upholster furniture, adding warmth and luxury.
* Linings: Beaver fur lined garments, accessories, and even military uniforms for insulation and comfort.
* Crafting Materials: Beaver fur was used for making decorative items like rugs, tapestries, and artwork.
* Medicinal Uses: Some Native American cultures used beaver castoreum (a substance from the beaver's scent glands) for medicinal purposes.
It's important to note that the use of beaver skins declined significantly as the species faced overhunting and habitat loss. The demand for fur led to the near extinction of the North American beaver in some areas.
Today, the use of beaver skins is largely restricted to historical preservation and cultural practices.