Who was he?
Simpson was regarded as one of the most influential men
in the Hudson's Bay Company. He started with the company as a clerk
in 1820 but was quickly promoted and put in charge of the affairs
of the Northern Department (the territory between James Bay and the
Rocky Mountains).
What did he do?Sir George Simpson had a fine head for business and he helped
the company run more efficiently and economically. He reduced
personnel, curbed expenses and streamlined transportation by
employing more efficient York boats. Simpson also used his
management skills to help mediate between Hudson's Bay men and
former Nor'westers. He commanded the respect of the men around him
and found ways to get the most out of everyone.
His legacy
Simpson has been called "The Little Emperor" and has often
been viewed as kind of a Canadian corporate hero. In 1839,
Simpson's business and management efforts were recognized by the
British Government and he was knighted.