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Jacques Cartier

Definition

Jacques Cartier was a French explorer who made three voyages to North America in the 16th century. He is best known for exploring the Saint Lawrence River and laying claim to Canada as a French colony.

Analogy

Imagine you're an artist discovering a new style or technique. You experiment with it, refine it, and eventually make it your own. That's what Cartier did with Canada - he explored it, understood its potential, and claimed it for France.

Related terms

Samuel de Champlain: Known as "Father of New France", he founded Quebec City on his voyage to Canada in 1608.

John Cabot: An Italian navigator & explorer whose 1497 discovery of parts of North America under commission from Henry VII is commonly held to have been first European encounter with continent since Norse Vikings visits to Vinland in eleventh century.

New France: It was area colonized by France in North America during period starting exploration of Saint Lawrence River by Jacques Cartier in 1534 till cession of New France to Great Britain & Spain in 1763 at end of Seven Years' War.