Jacques Cartier
French explorer for New France and Canada

Born
December 31st, 1491
533 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1557
468 years ago — 65 years old
Category
Explorers & Adventurers
Country
France
Links & References
A French navigator and explorer played a crucial role in the early exploration of Canada. In 1534, he made his first voyage across the Atlantic and claimed the land in the name of France. He explored the Gulf of St. Lawrence and established contact with Indigenous peoples, notably the St. Lawrence Iroquoian tribes. Cartier's expeditions laid the groundwork for future French colonization in North America. His work contributed significantly to mapping the region, including the St. Lawrence River and the vicinity of present-day Quebec.
Claimed Canada for France in 1534
Explored the St. Lawrence River
Mapped parts of modern-day Quebec
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