Jacques Cartier Laid the Basis for French Claims in North America (1534)

Jacques Cartier established France's initial North American claims during his 1534 voyage:

• Explored Gulf of St. Lawrence, Chaleur Bay, Gaspé Peninsula.
• Planted a cross at Gaspé claiming land for King Francis I.
• 1535: Sailed up St. Lawrence to Stadacona (Québec) and Hochelaga (Montréal).
• 1541: Attempted colony at Charlesbourg-Royal (failed).

Though permanent settlement came later (Champlain, 1608), Cartier's voyages defined the St. Lawrence corridor as France's gateway, enabling the future New France.