Question

Jacques Cartier and Samuel de Champlain both explored present-day Canada for the French. Explain how their experiences in North America were different.

a) Cartier explored the east coast, while Champlain explored the west coast.
b) Cartier focused on trade, while Champlain established settlements.
c) Cartier explored for Spain, while Champlain explored for France.
d) Both had similar experiences in North America.

Answer 1

Jacques Cartier explored and claimed lands for France, engaging in early trade but not establishing permanent settlements, whereas Samuel de Champlain's efforts led to the establishment of Quebec, effectively creating a French foothold in North America through trade and alliances with indigenous peoples.

Step-by-step explanation:

The experiences of Jacques Cartier and Samuel de Champlain in North America were quite distinct. Jacques Cartier was commissioned by the French monarchy and made his notable voyages between 1534 and 1542, with significant interactions like claiming the mouth of the St. Lawrence Seaway for France and engaging in early trade relations with indigenous peoples. Despite these interactions, the French initially found no valuable resources in Canada to encourage immediate colonization after Cartier's voyages.

In contrast, Samuel de Champlain played a crucial role in the French colonization efforts, establishing the city of Quebec in 1608 as a fur-trading outpost. Champlain's approach to New France involved strategic alliances with native tribes such as the Huron and Algonquin, significantly fostering France's fur trading interests in North America. Unlike Cartier, Champlain's vision and actions laid the foundation for a more permanent French presence in North America.

Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is option B) Cartier focused on trade, while Champlain established settlements.