Jacques Cartier

During the great race to explore the New World, France was off to a slow start. The first to explore for them was an Italian named Verrazano. In 1534, a young Frenchman name Cartier took the standard for his countrymen and led the way across the ocean to the New World.

Born in 1491, in the seacoast town of St. Malo, Jacques was sent to Dieppe to receive his education as a navigator. When King Francis I wanted to send an expedition to North America to look for a short route to Asia, he chose Cartier. Some people believe that he even accompanied Verrazano on his expedition.

In 1534, Cartier left France to discover what he could of the New World. His two ships arrived after only 20 days of sailing. They immediately began exploring the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Anticosti Island, and the Gaspe Peninsula.

While in the Gaspe region, the ships were approached by approximately 50 canoes filled with Micmac Indians. They appeared to be friendly, and the two groups met again the next day to trade and celebrate their new friendship.

Cartier resumed exploring the bay and soon met up with 200 Huron Indians. They were accompanied by their Chief, Donnaconna, and his two sons. When it was time to go back to France, Cartier took the two sons with him.