Mikak

Mikak and her son Tutauk, by John Russell, 1769.

Inuit diplomat and cultural bridge between worlds

Mikak (1740 – 1795) was an Inuit woman whose life intersected dramatically with the arrival of Europeans in Labrador. Though often remembered as one of the first Inuit women to travel to England, her legacy runs deeper – as a skilled mediator, cultural translator, and enduring symbol of Inuit strength during a time of profound change.

Born in Labrador and raised according to the traditional ways of her people, Mikak’s early life followed the rhythms of Inuit culture. Around 1764, at about 24 years of age, she encountered Europeans for the first time when a storm stranded Danish missionary Jens Haven on the Labrador coast. Haven had come hoping to convert the Inuit to Christianity, but it was Mikak’s curiosity that made the lasting impression. She memorized a poem he taught her – a small gesture that reflected her lifelong interest in language and understanding across cultures.

In 1767, an Inuit raid on an English fishing village resulted in the capture of several boats. The British retaliated harshly – killing the Inuit men involved and taking the women and children captive. Among those imprisoned at Chateau Bay were Mikak and her young son.

While in captivity, Mikak began to learn English. Her intelligence, poise, and charisma impressed the British governor of Newfoundland, Hugh Palliser. Seeing an opportunity, he arranged for Mikak and her son to travel to England. His motivations were dual: to showcase British strength and refinement to the Inuit and to enlist Mikak as a diplomatic bridge in fostering trade and easing tensions.

Mikak’s time in London was extraordinary. She quickly became fluent in English and moved comfortably through aristocratic circles, dining with the elite and even members of the royal family. Her charm and dignity captivated those she met. Augusta, Dowager Princess of Wales, presented her with a dress trimmed in gold lace. A formal portrait of Mikak and her son was commissioned from the artist John Russell.

This journey, while orchestrated by colonial powers, gave Mikak a rare view of European society – and positioned her as a figure of significance upon her return.

Mikak returned to Labrador in 1769, and in the years that followed, she was instrumental in encouraging the Inuit to permit the establishment of a Moravian mission. Her influence helped the Moravians secure a foothold in the region, and for years she remained connected to their work – though never fully accepting their beliefs.

Her relationship with the missionaries was complex. She assisted them, challenged them, and remained fiercely independent. Only in the final year of her life did she choose to be baptized. She died in September 1795 under the care of the Moravians.

In 2011, Mikak was designated a Person of National Historic Significance by the Government of Canada. The citation reads:

‘A charismatic and resourceful woman, she exemplified Inuit self-determination, political ability and economic control at a time of cultural transition.’

Mikak’s legacy is that of a woman who walked between worlds – holding fast to her identity while navigating the shifting currents of colonialism, diplomacy, and cultural survival.

References:

Whiteley, William H. (2003). “MIKAK (Micoc, Mykok),” in Dictionary of Canadian Biography, vol. 4, University of Toronto/Université Laval. https://www.biographi.ca/en/bio/mikak_4E.html