In what year did the numbered treaties begin?

The correct answer is 1871, as this is the year when the numbered treaties began. The numbered treaties are a series of agreements between the Canadian government and various Indigenous nations in Canada, aimed at establishing terms for land use and rights in exchange for certain benefits. The first of these treaties, Treaty 1, was signed in 1871, marking a significant point in Canadian history in terms of Indigenous relations and land negotiation.

Understanding the context of the numbered treaties is crucial, as they were part of a broader federal policy to encourage settlement and development in what was then known as the Northwest Territories. This included recognizing Indigenous rights to land while making provisions for their engagement in the new governance and economic structures being established.

The other years provided in the options do not mark the beginning of this treaty-making process; thus, selecting 1867 or 1869 would refer to different historical events, such as the Confederation of Canada or other agreements not involving the specifics of the numbered treaties. The date 1882 also does not align with the commencement of the numbered treaties, as it falls outside the timeline of the initial negotiations and agreements.