Rekha Kakkar
Updated on: October 12, 2024 12:27 am GMT
The Arctic is rich in history, and few understand this better than Kenn Harper, a celebrated historian and author. This Saturday, Harper will deliver the esteemed Bartlett lecture in Brigus, Newfoundland and Labrador, sharing his experiences and insights on Arctic history, including noteworthy events that shaped the region, such as Nunavut’s first murder trial.
Kenn Harper: A Voice for Arctic History
Kenn Harper, a prominent figure in the study of the Arctic, has dedicated over five decades to researching and documenting the stories of northern communities. With a portfolio that includes 11 published books and contributions to Nunatsiaq News, Harper brings a wealth of knowledge to the Bartlett lecture, which is named after Arctic navigator Capt. Bob Bartlett. The annual event invites academics and historians to recount their explorations and findings related to Newfoundland history and northern exploration.
In an interview, Harper expressed his excitement about the opportunity: “I’ve always known about it and thought, ‘What an honour if someday I could give the Bartlett lecture at Brigus,’ and lo and behold, this year they asked me.” His presentation, titled “A Life in Arctic History,” promises to weave personal anecdotes with historical narratives that have intrigued him throughout his career.
Highlights from Harper’s Lecture
During the lecture, Harper intends to delve into several impactful stories, including:
- Minik Wallace: An Inuk who traveled from Greenland to New York City in 1897, Minik was studied by the American Museum of Natural History. Harper has authored books such as “Give Me My Father’s Body” and “Minik: The New York Eskimo,” detailing Wallace’s life and the challenges he faced.
- Robert Janes’ Shooting: Harper will recount the 1920 incident involving Norwegian trader Robert Janes, who was shot during a trading expedition on Baffin Island. The accused, Inuk leader Nuqallaq, was part of the first murder trial in Nunavut, which took place in 1923 in Pond Inlet.
- Nancy Columbia: Known as the “most famous Inuk of all,” Columbia was notable for being the first Inuk screenwriter and bringing her story to life in the silent film “The Way of the Eskimo.” Although no copies of the film remain, it showcased Inuit culture and history to a wider audience.
These narratives are not just historical accounts; they bring to light the cultural heritage and experiences of Arctic peoples. Harper’s use of personal context aims to enrich the lecture, providing listeners with a more profound understanding of the subjects.
Bringing History to Life in Nunavut
The Bartlett lecture, taking place on September 14, is particularly significant as it marks the first such event since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Harper hopes his insights can inspire attendees, especially those in Nunavut. He suggested that the lecture should be broadcasted in schools during the Inuktitut learning period, ensuring that students gain exposure to their rich history.
In addition to the lecture, there will be a Q&A session, allowing audience members to engage directly with Harper and discuss various aspects of Arctic history that resonate with their own experiences.
Implications for Today’s Arctic
As Harper prepares to share these captivating stories, it is essential to consider their relevance in contemporary discussions about identity, heritage, and resilience among Indigenous peoples in Canada. The narratives not only preserve history but also challenge stereotypes and foster understanding across cultural lines.
Additionally, as the Arctic continues to evolve with issues like climate change and resource development, the lessons drawn from these historical accounts become increasingly pertinent. Harper’s work serves to highlight the importance of preserving and sharing Indigenous narratives as part of national history.
B2Gold Adjusts Goose Project Cost
In an unrelated but noteworthy development, B2Gold has announced a significant increase in the estimated costs for its Goose mine project in Nunavut. The company raised its cost projection by 23%, bringing the total estimate to $1.13 billion. This increase is attributed mainly to a delay in the expected commencement of gold production, now anticipated to begin in the second quarter of 2025.
Rather than stalling progress, construction remains on track. Once operational, B2Gold projects the Goose mine will yield approximately 310,000 ounces of gold annually for the first five years.
This adjustment comes amid B2Gold’s efforts to resolve issues related to their Fekola mine complex in Mali, which also saw a significant agreement with the Malian government, ensuring stability for ongoing and future projects.
Conclusion
The Arctic is looking back at its history while also thinking about the future. Historians like Kenn Harper help make sure that Indigenous stories are remembered and celebrated. People attending this year’s Bartlett lecture will learn more about the exciting history of the Arctic, including its struggles and cultural successes. As mining and exploration change the area, understanding this history is more important than ever.
