Henri de Tonti

Definition

Henri de Tonti (1649–1704) was an Italian-born explorer who played a key role in early French expeditions into North America, particularly around Great Lakes region and Mississippi River valley.

Analogy

Imagine being a co-founder at a startup company. You may not get as much recognition as the main founder but your contributions are vital for its success. That's Henri de Tonti - he might not be as famous as La Salle but his work was crucial in establishing French presence in North America.

Related terms

Louis Jolliet: He was a French-Canadian explorer known for his discoveries in North America including first detailed map of Mississippi River.

New France: The area colonized by France in North America during a period beginning with exploration by Jacques Cartier in 1534 and ending with cession of New France to Spain and Great Britain in 1763.

Fur Trade: The worldwide buying, selling, and trading in animal fur. It played a significant role in the development of colonies in North America.