This document describes part of the historical experience of the Split Lake Cree, identifying and analyzing key changes in the First Nation's history and noting factors that have caused such changes, particularly the impacts from hydroelectric development (Lake Winnipeg Regulation/Churchill River Diversion). It provides an overview of the Cree presence in northern Manitoba from pre- European times up to the present, with a focus on the 20th century. It describes traditional life before 1920, followed by an account of the development of the community of Split Lake within relevant eras, with special emphasis on the years after 1940. Specific topics covered include community government, impacts of hydroelectric development on traditional resource harvesting, and negotiation of the Northern Flood Agreement.