British Columbia, 1849-1871: Prelude to Confederation. This paper discusses the evolution of British settlement on the Pacific coast of North America from the Oregon Treaty (1846) to the Confederation of British Columbia (1871). It traces the evolution from a fur trade station to a colony and then a province. It focuses on conflict with American ambitions in Oregon and Washington and the impact of the gold rush of 1858. It also includes a biography of Sir James Douglas, the colonies governor and the local Hudson's Bay Company Superintendent. 10 pgs. Bibliography lists 11 sources. Pages: 10 Bibliography: 11 source(s) listed Filename: 4166 BC Prelude Confederation.doc Price: 89.50