Samuel De Champlain

Historical Background Samuel De Champlain was born in 1567 in the town of Brouage, France. He got an education to become a navigator, trying to follow after his father, who was a ship-captain. He joined the army as a quartermaster of cavalry at a young age.

In January, 1599, Champlain became the commander of the “St. Julien” and sailed to the West Indies for two and a half years, exploring the islands.

Family Champlain’s family was originally from France. His father was the captain of a ship. His uncle was pilot- general of the Spanish fleets.

Language Being from France, Champlain and his family all grew up speaking French as their native language.

Champlain’s Voyages Champlain made many voyages to North America. His first voyages were as a map maker and a negotiator on a ship run by De Monts.

St. Croix Champlain spent his first winter in North America on the island of St. Croix. Many crew members died that year from scurvy, starvation, and lack of protection from the cold.

Port Royal After the harsh winter on St. Croix, Champlain and the rest of the crew moved present day Annapolis and established a new home. This was called Port Royal.

The Order Of Good Cheer The crew was starting to become unhappy and discouraged from the unusually bad weather. Champlain created The Order Of Good Cheer. It was a fun, relaxing place to ease the troubles on everyone's minds.

Interaction For the next few years, Champlain explored the new world. He quickly befriended the Hurons and the Algonquins. He also became enemies with the Iroquois. This led to Champlain being badly wounded during war against the Iroquois.

Exploration Champlain explored all across western Nova Scotia, the St. Lawrence River, and Quebec. He settled with the natives of Quebec and lived with them until his death in 1635.

Champlain’s Map This is a map Champlain drew during his voyages with De Monts.

Bibliography Klos, S., ( ) Samuel De Champlain. (Online), Sept. 30, Canadian History For Dummies. (2000). New York, NY. Landry, P,. ( ). Stuck In A Frame. (Online). 00/Champlain.htm