European Colonization and Exploration of the New World

16th Century Spain and the Conquistadors

• Spain conquered a massive New World empire in the early 1500s.
• The Aztecs were defeated, bringing immense wealth back to Spain.
• Gold from the New World made King Philip II the most powerful monarch in Europe.
• Spain's success incited envy and competition among other European nations.

The Race for North America

• England and France sought their own empires of gold.
• The search for wealth led to exploration deeper into the continent.
• New alliances and conflicts arose with the Aboriginal peoples.
• The foundation for the first great city on the continent was laid.

Martin Frobisher and the Northwest Passage

• Martin Frobisher, an English seaman, attempted to find a passage to Asia.
• Frobisher mistakenly believed he found the Northwest Passage in 1576.
• Captured an Inuit man as proof of his exploration.
• Collected a black stone believed to hold gold, leading to a failed treasure hunt.

English Settlements in Newfoundland

• John Guy led the first English colonists to Newfoundland in 1610.
• Settlers faced harsh winters, failing crops, and financial losses.
• The colony eventually failed, while French efforts succeeded elsewhere.

The French in New France

• Samuel de Champlain founded Quebec in 1608.
• Established a trading post for French and Indian fur trade.
• Formed alliances with the Montagnier and Algonquin tribes.
• Champlain's actions against the Iroquois set a precedent for future conflict.

The Jesuits and Religious Influence

• Jesuit missionaries spread Christianity among the Huron.
• Their presence unwittingly brought diseases that decimated native populations.
• Huronia was eventually destroyed by the Iroquois.

The Settlement and Expansion of New France

• Cardinal Richelieu established the Company of 100 Associates to populate New France.
• The settlement survived through adversity, including English occupation.
• The arrival of soldiers and settlers bolstered the colony's growth.

Population Growth and Development

• The influx of settlers, including the Filles du Roi, expanded the population.
• Jean Talon's policies encouraged marriage and childbirth.
• New France's population grew, forming a foundation for future development.

Challenges and Changes in the 17th Century

• The Iroquois threat required military intervention by the French crown.
• New France transitioned from a trading outpost to a royal colony.
• Economic ventures were attempted, but labor shortages persisted.

Conclusion

• By the late 17th century, New France had established a foothold in North America.
• The foundations were laid for future expansion and conflict with rivals.
• The partnership with indigenous tribes would shape the continent's future.