Alexander Christie (governor)

Alexander Christie (1792-1872) was a Scottish-born fur trader and Governor of the Red River Colony. He served in various capacities for the Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) for much of his career, becoming a chief factor in 1833.

Christie played a significant role in the administration of the Red River Colony during a period of substantial social and political change. He served as Governor of Assiniboia (the district surrounding the Red River Settlement) from 1833 to 1839 and again from 1844 to 1848. During his tenure, he faced challenges related to settlement, relations with Indigenous populations, and the ongoing struggle for power between the HBC and the growing Métis population.

His governorship was marked by attempts to enforce HBC's trading monopoly, which led to friction with Métis traders, notably Cuthbert Grant, who challenged the company's authority. Christie's efforts to maintain order and control within the colony often involved navigating complex legal and political situations related to land ownership and trading rights.

After his time as governor, Christie continued to work for the Hudson's Bay Company until his retirement. He eventually returned to Scotland, where he died in 1872. His legacy is viewed through the lens of his role in administering the HBC’s interests in a rapidly evolving region of North America.