What were 3 advantages that the NWC had over the HBC?

• A. All three listed advantages
• B. They were expanding west into new territories for fur
• C. They were partnered with voyageurs who were constantly traveling by canoe
• D. They were friendly with First Nations communities and worked with them

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that the North West Company gained an edge by combining geography, transport, and Indigenous alliances. Expanding west into new territories opened up untapped fur sources and interior trading routes, giving them access to more pelts than the HBC could reach alone. Relying on voyageurs who were continually traveling by canoe created a fast, flexible transport network that moved furs from distant posts to markets efficiently and at lower cost. Being friendly with First Nations communities and working with them built trust, provided crucial knowledge of trapping grounds and routes, and secured favorable trading terms. When these three elements come together, they explain why the NWC could outpace the HBC in the fur trade, so all three listed advantages collectively describe the NWC’s edge.