Alberta's history began with Indigenous peoples, including the Cree, Blackfoot, and Dene, who inhabited the region for thousands of years. European exploration started in the late 17th century, with fur traders like Hudson's Bay Company establishing trading posts. The arrival of settlers in the late 19th century led to the establishment of Alberta as a province in 1905. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century transformed Alberta's economy, making it a key player in Canada's energy sector. The province has since developed a diverse economy, with agriculture, forestry, and tourism also playing significant roles in its growth and development.