Gina Vilsack and Amanda Abell

Background Information Jacques Cartier was born on December 31, 1491 in Saint-Malon, France. He belonged to a family of mariners and later married Mary Catherine Des Granches. There were not many significant events in his life, other than the fact that he studied navigation in France. Jacques Cartier later died on September 1, 1557 in France.

Exploration Jacques Cartier was sent by King Francis to the New World to search for riches and a new route to Asia in May Cartier went out on his journey with three ships and 110 men. Him and his men navigated St. Lawrence, and went as far as Quebec, where they established a base.

Exploration continued In September, Jacques Cartier sailed down the river in Montreal, where he met Iroquois. Iroquois was the leader of the area and told Cartier and his men that there were rivers farther west that had riches. They had to delay their journey because of the winter weather, but soon continued in the spring. Jacques Cartier captured some of Iroquois’ chiefs and reported back to the king. He told King Francis that there were untold riches in the west and there was a 2,000 mile long river that led to Asia.

Importance Jacques Cartier’s exploration was important because he was able to find out about the riches and the river. Finding gold, silver, and copper was important and Cartier was excited to report back to King Francis.

References "Jacques Cartier Biography." Bio.com. A&E Networks Television, n.d. Web. 05 May "Jacques Cartier (French Explorer)." Encyclopedia Britannica Online. Encyclopedia Britannica, n.d. Web. 05 May "Who Was Jacques Cartier? Biography & Voyages of French Explorer." Totally History Jacques Cartier Comments. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May