The Native American fur trade network played a significant role in the history of Nebraska, with various Native American tribes participating in the exchange of goods and resources. This network was a complex web of interactions between Native American tribes, European colonizers, and later, American traders. The primary focus of this network was the collection and trade of fur-bearing animals such as beaver, otter, and bison, which were highly valued for their pelts.

One of the most prominent Native American tribes involved in the fur trade in Nebraska was the Otoe tribe, who were located in the eastern part of the state, near present-day Omaha. The Otoe tribe was known for their expertise in hunting and trapping, and their geographical location made them an ideal middleman between European traders and other Native American tribes to the west. The Otoe tribe traded with European colonizers at Fort Lisa, a trading post located on the Missouri River near present-day Omaha, and also with American traders at Fort Atkinson, located near present-day Fort Calhoun.

Another significant tribe involved in the fur trade was the Omaha tribe, who were also located in the eastern part of the state, near present-day Omaha. The Omaha tribe was known for their control of the Missouri River trade route, which made them a crucial part of the fur trade network. They traded with European colonizers at Fort Lisa and also with American traders at Council Bluffs, located on the western bank of the Missouri River near present-day Council Bluffs, Iowa.

The Pawnee tribe, who were located in the central part of the state, near present-day Kearney, also played a significant role in the fur trade network. The Pawnee tribe was known for their expertise in hunting and trapping, and their control of the Platte River trade route made them an ideal middleman between European traders and other Native American tribes to the west. They traded with European colonizers at Fort Kearny, a military outpost located near present-day Kearney, and also with American traders at Fort Laramie, located near present-day Gering.

The fur trade network in Nebraska was not limited to the tribes mentioned above. Other tribes such as the Ponca, Oglala Sioux, and Brule Sioux were also involved in the network. The network was a complex system of interactions, with multiple tribes and traders involved in the collection, transportation, and trade of goods. The network spanned across multiple states, including Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and South Dakota.

The decline of the Native American fur trade network in Nebraska was largely due to the decline of the bison population in the region. The introduction of European diseases such as smallpox and influenza, as well as the construction of the transcontinental railroad, led to a significant decline in bison populations. This decline made it difficult for Native American tribes to continue participating in the fur trade network. The forced relocation of many Native American tribes to reservations also contributed to the decline of the fur trade network.

Despite the decline of the Native American fur trade network in Nebraska, the legacy of the network can still be seen today. Many of the towns and cities in the state were established along the trade routes of the fur trade network, including Omaha, Fort Calhoun, and Kearney. Additionally, the cultural and historical significance of the network continues to be celebrated through museums and historical sites throughout the state.