Jacques Cartier died in Saint-Malo at the age of 65. His death marked the end of the life of a significant explorer who played a pivotal role in the early exploration and claiming of Canada for France.
Jacques Cartier began a reconnaissance mission in search of the 'Kingdom of Saguenay', but bad weather and rapids prevented him from reaching the Ottawa River.
Two of Jacques Cartier's ships were sent back to France with what the crew believed to be gold and diamonds, but which later turned out to be worthless minerals.
Jacques Cartier departed from Saint-Malo on his third and final voyage to Canada with five ships. The primary goals were to find the 'Kingdom of Saguenay' and establish a permanent settlement.
Jean-François de La Rocque de Roberval was appointed as the first lieutenant general of French Canada, replacing Jacques Cartier as the leader of the expedition to colonize Canada. Cartier was relegated to the role of chief navigator.
King Francis I of France ordered Jacques Cartier to return to Canada to assist with a colonization project, appointing him as 'captain general'. This marked the beginning of preparations for Cartier's third voyage.
Jacques Cartier returned to Saint-Malo, France, after completing his second voyage to North America. He brought with him Chief Donnacona and other Iroquoians, marking the end of a 14-month voyage.
Jacques Cartier returned to Stadacona after visiting Hochelaga. This marks the end of his exploration further up the St. Lawrence River during his second voyage and his return to the base where his larger ships remained.
Jacques Cartier arrived at Hochelaga (now Montreal) during his second voyage. He was greeted by a large crowd of Iroquoians. This event marks the first European contact with the site of present-day Montreal.
Jacques Cartier planted a cross in Gaspé Bay, claiming the land for France. This act signifies the formal claiming of the territory that would later become New France. He also kidnapped two sons of Chief Donnacona.
Jacques Cartier set sail from France on his first voyage to North America, commissioned by King Francis I. He hoped to discover a western passage to the East Indies and find gold and other precious things. This voyage marked the beginning of French exploration of the St. Lawrence River region.
