These are the Metis Bill of Rights-1884. And I don't understand what they are saying at all, so I would like someone to simplify what it is that they are saying.

-That customs duties are levied on the necessaries of life

-That no effective measures have yet been taken to put the people at the Northwest in direct communication with the European Markets, via Hudson Bay

-That settlers are exposed to coercion at elections, owing to the fact that votes are not taken by ballot

Please tell to me what these mean.

That customs duties are levied on the necessaries of life

Customs duties are taxes paid to the government on goods brought into a country or territory. In this case, these taxes were paid on food and clothing.

That no effective measures have yet been taken to put the people at the Northwest in direct communication with the European Markets, via Hudson Bay.
The people in the Northwest couldn't sell their goods (furs, etc.) to Europe.

That settlers are exposed to coercion at elections, owing to the fact that votes are not taken by ballot.
Voting was not secret, so everyone could see how a person voted. People were often forced to vote the way the "bosses" wanted them to vote.

Okay. That is so much more understandable. Thank you:D

Good!

You're welcome.

The Metis Bill of Rights from 1884 is addressing three main points:

1. It states that taxes (customs duties) are being imposed on essential items that people need for survival. This means that the government is charging additional fees on items that are necessary for everyday life, making it harder for the people to afford them.

2. It mentions that no effective actions have been taken to connect the people in the Northwest region to European markets through Hudson Bay. This implies that there are no proper means of transportation or trade routes established to allow the people in the area to connect with European markets, hindering their ability to engage in trade and economic opportunities.

3. It highlights that during elections, settlers are vulnerable to pressure or influence because votes are not cast secretly (by ballot). This means that in the voting process, people have to publicly declare their vote, making it easier for others to use coercion or force to influence their choice rather than allowing individuals to freely express their political preferences without fear of reprisal.

In summary, the Metis Bill of Rights-1884 points out issues such as excessive taxes on essential goods, lack of access to European markets for trade, and a flawed electoral system that undermines the freedom of choice during elections.