Impact of Salmon Fishing on Livelihood and Social Relations Among the Ulchi and the Amur Nanai (Second Half of the 19th – Early 20th Century)

Drawing on an analysis of literary sources, 1897 Census data, and the author's field materials, the study examines the impact of salmon fishing on the economic and social structures of the Tungus-Manchu ethnic groups – the Ulchi and Nanai people. Specific features of the spawning migration of various species of Pacific salmon formed the regional basis of livelihoods in the Lower Amur region. These same features determined the economic character and structure of settlements as well as impacting social relations among the Amur Nanai and the Ulchi.