What were the French traders and trappers called?

French traders and trappers were often called coureurs de bois, which translates to "runners of the woods".

Here's why:

* They were adventurous and mobile: They travelled deep into the North American wilderness, often living among Indigenous peoples and relying on their knowledge for survival and trade.

* They traded furs and goods: They traded with Indigenous communities, acquiring valuable furs like beaver pelts which were in high demand in Europe.

* They were independent: They often operated outside the formal structures of the French fur trade, sometimes even defying government regulations.

The term "coureurs de bois" is a significant part of French-Canadian history, reflecting the crucial role these individuals played in exploring, exploiting, and interacting with the North American continent.