Arthur J. Ray, O.C.
Vancouver, British Columbia
An internationally recognized historical geographer, Arthur Ray has made lasting contributions to our understanding of Canada’s ethno-history, economic history and Aboriginal case law. Professor emeritus at the University of British Columbia, he is best known for pioneering the use of the Hudson’s Bay Company’s archives to delineate the historical geography of First Nations in Canada, from the time of first European contact. The impact of his scholarship has been far-reaching and has resulted in renewed interest in fur trade studies and has revolutionized Indigenous studies’ methodology.