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Basque Whalers in the Strait of Belle Isle

Red Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador
· Les baleiners Basques dans la détroit de Belle Isle
Industry
1
In the 16th century, the Labrador side of the Strait of Belle Isle emerged as the world's largest producer of whale oil. At its peak, whaling on this coast attracted nearly 2000 Basques annually from Spain and France, and Red Bay became a major centre for seasonal hunting and processing. The whale oil and other products were sold in Europe for lighting and manufacturing. Archival evidence and remains of shore facilities and vessels found here make a significant contribution to the knowledge of whaling and shipbuilding during this era.
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Newfoundland and Labrador · Canada
Red Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador
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