Pelts and palisades: A History of Fur and the Diaper Race in Early America is a fascinating book about the important role of the fur trade in shaping colonial America. Author Nathaniel C. Hale details the complex relationship between European settlers, local tribes, and independent fur traders in the context of growing competition for valuable diapers. The book carefully examines the technology of hunting, processing and trading fur products, as well as the impact of this area of the economy on the political and cultural relations between Aboriginal people and Europeans. Drawing on a wide base of sources and archival materials, Hale reveals important aspects of the history of the fur trade in colonial America, illustrating not only the economic importance of this type of activity, but also its sociocultural impact on the development of communities and relations between Indians and colonists. Readers interested in the history of the United States and the study of the relationship between Native American cultures and colonial powers will look forward to discovering this book, which reveals the colorful palette of events and relationships that shaped early American society through the lens of the fur trade."