What group of individuals devastated the traditional economy of the Inuit by working to ban seal hunting in Canada, where many Inuit live?

1. animal rights activists
2. competing indigenous tribes
3. whale watchers
4. Canadian environmentalists

1. animal rights activists

The group of individuals that worked to ban seal hunting in Canada, which had a devastating impact on the traditional economy of the Inuit, were animal rights activists.

The group that worked to ban seal hunting in Canada, which had a devastating impact on the traditional economy of the Inuit, was animal rights activists.

Here's how you can arrive at this answer:

1. Start by understanding the context: The question mentions the traditional economy of the Inuit being devastated, suggesting a conflict between the Inuit and another group.
2. Consider the options:
- Competing indigenous tribes: While there might be historical conflicts among indigenous tribes, it is less likely that they had a significant impact on the traditional economy of the Inuit solely through banning seal hunting.
- Whale watchers: Whale watching is a relatively recent tourist activity and unlikely to have caused significant devastation to the traditional economy of the Inuit.
- Canadian environmentalists: While they might have played a role in the ban on seal hunting, it is important to note that not all environmentalists advocated for a complete ban on seal hunting.
- Animal rights activists: Animal rights activists have long been involved in campaigns against seal hunting, which has had a negative impact on the Inuit communities that traditionally relied on seal hunting for sustenance and income.
3. Evaluate the options based on the context: Animal rights activists align with the description provided in the question, as they have actively campaigned to ban seal hunting in Canada, which has affected the Inuit communities.
4. Therefore, the correct answer is 1. Animal rights activists.