In this intellectual history, the second volume in Brill's "Early American History" series, Colpitts (history, Univ. of Calgary, Canada) examines what he terms the ongoing European fascination with the Indian trade from the period of exploration and colonization to the mid-19th century. The author also suggests and examines some ways that perceptions and descriptions of Indian trade changed according to the rise and fall of virtues associated with commercial capital, primarily in western Europe. He is successful in both endeavors. Colpitts misses very little. He considers the influence of writers, traders, trappers, government agents, the church, and the traditional interpretations and descriptions fo Indian trade practices over several centuries. Given all this, not surprisingly, what stands out is the overwhelming importance of self-interest. The work is thorough, interesting, even eye-opening at times, and it will make colonial historians reexamine their understanding and opinions about the Indian trade.

An exceptionally strong bibliography, illustrations, an index, and extensive footnotes printed on the pertinent pages add to this exceptional volume. Summing Up: Essential. Most levels/libraries.-- P. T. Sherrill, emeritus, University of Arkansas at Little Rock[This review appeared in the June 2014 issue of Choice .]Copyright 2014 American Library Association.