Journals · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Journals by Alexander Mackenzie.
Each chapter has a companion in the reader — open a free preview to see notes beside the text.
Chapter 1
Journals To the Frozen and Pacific Oceans in 1789 and 1793
This chapter details the exploratory journeys of Sir Alexander Mackenzie, chronicling his expeditions to the Arctic Ocean in 1789 and the Pacific Ocean in 1793. It covers encounters with various Indigenous groups, the harsh conditions of travel, and the strategic decisions made during these voyages.
Chapter 2
To the Frozen Ocean in 1789
The chapter recounts Alexander Mackenzie's first major expedition from Fort Chipewyan down the river that would later bear his name, culminating in his arrival at the Arctic Ocean. It details the challenges of navigating unknown waters, encounters with Indigenous peoples, and the harsh realities of Arctic exploration.
Chapter 3
I
The narrator departs from Fort Chipewyan and travels up the Peace River, describing the geography, the origin of the river's name from a peace settlement between the Knisteneaux and Beaver Indians, and the difficult journey through cold weather and ice. He establishes a winter residence, oversees the construction of a fort, and acts as physician to the local people and his own men, noting the harsh conditions and the surprising presence of birds in the cold season.
Chapter 4
Chapter II
The narrator describes life at the fort, including interactions with the Beaver and Rocky Mountain Indians, their customs, and a violent dispute settled by his intervention. He also recounts a surgical procedure on a young Indian's hand, the harsh conditions endured by his men, and the cultural practices of the indigenous people, such as childbirth and the treatment of women.
Chapter 5
Chapter III
The expedition continues upriver, facing treacherous rapids, rocky precipices, and the constant need to repair the canoe. The narrator encounters a Beaver Indian chief, manages the hunters' loyalty, and receives warnings from Rocky Mountain Indians about the impassable rapids ahead. Despite broken equipment and dangerous conditions, the party perseveres, repairing the canoe multiple times and navigating through narrow channels and strong currents.
Free preview
21 more chapter companions sit beside the text in BetterReads — open a free preview to unlock the rest.
21 more companions → free preview- Chapter 6Chapter IV
- Chapter 7Chapter V
- Chapter 8Chapter VI
- Chapter 9Chapter VII
- Chapter 10To the Pacific Ocean in 1793
- Chapter 11I
- Chapter 12Chapter II
- Chapter 13Chapter III
- Chapter 14Chapter IV
- Chapter 15Chapter V
- Chapter 16Chapter VI
- Chapter 17Chapter VII
- Chapter 18Chapter VIII: Encounters and Perils on the River
- Chapter 19IX
- Chapter 20The Village of the Salmon People
- Chapter 21Chapter XI
- Chapter 22Chapter XII
- Chapter 23Chapter XIII
- Chapter 24Appendix
- Chapter 25Endnotes
- Chapter 26List of Illustrations