The Untold Stories of The People of New France: The Canada 150 Collection

In celebration of Canada's 150th anniversary, the National Museum of History in collaboration with the National Archives of Canada has curated a groundbreaking exhibition – The People of New France. This extraordinary collection sheds light on the lives, culture, and contributions of the early French settlers in the Canadian territory. Through artifacts, documents, and personal accounts, visitors can embark on a captivating journey back in time, exploring the untold stories of the resilient pioneers who laid the foundations of modern Canada.

The Birth of New France

In the 16th century, French navigators set sail across the mighty Atlantic in search of new lands to expand their influence and bolster their fur trading networks. These intrepid explorers, known as "coureurs de bois," braved treacherous oceans and perilous forests to establish a foothold in what is now present-day Canada.

As the French presence grew, so did their settlements. From Quebec to Montreal, the vast wilderness of New France gradually transformed into thriving hubs of trade, agriculture, and politics. However, behind the grand narratives of colonization and discovery lie the fascinating stories of the ordinary people who faced adversity and triumphed against all odds.

The People of New France (The Canada 150 Collection)

by Allan Greer(Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1921 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	130 pages

FREE

The Everyday Lives of Settlers

The Canada 150 Collection vividly showcases the day-to-day experiences of the inhabitants of New France. Step into replicas of 17th-century homes and catch a glimpse of how settlers lived, cooked, and worked. Marvel at authentic artifacts, including traditional clothing, furniture, and tools, which provided invaluable insights into the lives of these early pioneers.

Learn about the struggles and triumphs of women who played crucial roles in the survival and success of their communities. Discover the traditions and customs that were passed down through generations, shaping the unique cultural tapestry that thrives in Canada to this day. From ceremonial objects to religious artifacts, the exhibition provides a comprehensive look into the rich tapestry of French heritage in Canada.

The Forgotten Heroes

While historical accounts often focus on notable figures such as Jacques Cartier and Samuel de Champlain, the Canada 150 Collection sheds light on the unsung heroes of New France. Unearth diaries, letters, and memoirs that express the hopes, dreams, and fears of ordinary individuals who braved the unknown for a chance at a new life. Through their stories, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the resilience and character demonstrated by these everyday heroes.

Explore the achievements and contributions of settlers in various fields, including agriculture, arts, and education. Discover the innovations born out of necessity and the determination that made seemingly impossible dreams a reality. From the first schools to advancements in farming techniques, the impact of New France on the development of Canada is immeasurable.

A Legacy Preserved

As you walk through the halls of The People of New France exhibition, you will sense the indomitable spirit that lives on in the present day. Witness the preservation and continuity of French language and culture through centuries, from the establishment of French-speaking communities to the vibrant Francophone provinces that exist today.

Engage with interactive installations and explore multimedia presentations that bring history to life like never before. Hear the voices of the past through audio recordings, watch captivating videos, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of New France. This collection is more than an assembly of artifacts; it is a living testament to the enduring legacy of these early settlers.

The People of New France - The Canada 150 Collection is not just a museum exhibition; it is a transformative experience that allows visitors to connect with the past in a profound and meaningful way. By celebrating the lives of the people who shaped New France and ultimately Canada, this collection brings forth a new understanding of our shared history and heritage.

As Canada celebrates its 150th anniversary, let us remember the trials and triumphs of the resilient settlers who ventured into the unknown. The People of New France exhibition honors their legacy, ensuring that their stories are forever etched into the annals of our great nation.

The People of New France (The Canada 150 Collection)

by Allan Greer(Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1921 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	130 pages

FREE

This book surveys the social history of New France. For more than a century, until the British conquest of 1759-60, France held sway over a major portion of the North American continent. In this vast territory several unique colonial societies emerged, societies which in many respects mirrored ancien regime France, but which also incorporated a major Aboriginal component.

Whereas earlier works in this field presented pre-conquest Canada as completely white and Catholic, The People of New France looks closely at other members of society as well: black slaves, English captives and Christian Iroquois of the mission villages near Montreal. The artisans and soldiers, the merchants, nobles, and priests who congregated in the towns of Montreal and Quebec are the subject of one chapter. Another chapter examines the special situation of French regime women under a legal system that recognized wives as equal owners of all family property. The author extends his analysis to French settlements around the Great Lakes and down the Mississippi Valley, and to Acadia and Ile Royale.

Greer's book, addressed to undergraduate students and general readers, provides a deeper understanding of how people lived their lives in these vanished Old-Regime societies.