Trading post
Trading Post, an establishment for the exchange of goods, usually among a primitive people. Rivalry among Spain, France, and England for the fur trade in 17th-century North America resulted in the establishment of trading posts far in advance of settlement. The fur trade's importance continued into the 19th century, and a number of United States companies took part, while the Canadian trade eventually was dominated by the Hudson's Bay Company.
In addition to furs, Indians bartered needed foods such as corn and pemmican for “trade goods,” including beads, cloth, knives, tomahawks, firearms, and whiskey. Attempts to control sale of firearms and to ban liquor were generally unsuccessful. Trading posts, usually on reservations, continue to deal in Indian-made articles such as blankets and jewelry of silver and turquoise.