Economic Activity in New France: History Quiz and Flashcards

Study Notes

New France

From its establishment by explorers like Samuel de Champlain from 1608 until it was transferred to Great Britain under the Treaty of Paris in 1763, New France was a significant part of European colonial history in what is now Canada. This territory extended across much of present-day Quebec and Ontario, parts of Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota, most of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island, and several islands off the Atlantic coast of North America. Here's an overview of key aspects during this period.

Governance in New France

The governance of New France was predominantly military with the governor also holding the position of commander-in-chief of the colonial forces. However, civil authority was increasingly separated into three branches: the executive, represented by the Governor General; legislative power vested in the Council, which advised him; and judicial power shared between the Court of Vice-Admiralty (for maritime affairs) and the Conseil Souverain (for land matters).

Economy of New France

For centuries, New France had a heavily agrarian economy based largely around fur trading. Indigenous people were crucial suppliers of furs through their hunting practices, allowing the colony to become prosperous enough to pay for imported goods from Europe such as clothing, tools, and weapons. The French government protected its colony by signing treaties with indigenous groups and occasionally going to war against their enemies, thereby expanding its influence over new territories.

In addition to farming and trapping, fishing played a major role in the economic life of colonial Canadians. Fishing took place along rivers and lakes near settlements where nets were set according to traditional methods and harvested using canoes. Inhabitants used draft animals such as horses, oxen, bullocks, cows, sheep, goats, pigs, and dogs to work their lands.

Fur Trade in New France

Trading furs became essential to New France's survival because the wealth generated through the sale of furs allowed for various benefits including the importation of manufactured items from Europe, helping create a more diverse culture within the region. The introduction of firearms made this possible as they greatly enhanced the ability of the native populations to hunt. As a result, the Native American population increased significantly due to improved nutrition and healthier lifestyle conditions brought about by access to European goods.

French Colonization in North America

French colonists came to North America seeking religious freedom, economic opportunities, and the right to practice Catholicism freely. They wanted to establish themselves firmly among the local Native Americans who lived there before them so that they could continue living peacefully alongside one another without interference from other nations. Eventually, however, political tensions between England and France led to conflicts over control of these areas.

Description

Explore the history of New France from its establishment in 1608 until its transfer to Great Britain in 1763. Learn about governance, economy, fur trade, and French colonization in North America during this significant colonial period.