A detailed, accessible history of Montreal’s early years under French rule, from settlement to the rise of a thriving community.
This book offers a focused look at the founding and growth of Ville Marie, later Montreal, during the 17th century. It surveys the people, institutions, and events that shaped the settlement—from the first associates and religious foundations to governance, defense, and daily life. The narrative centers on the challenges, triumphs, and turning points that helped Montreal become a lasting part of New France.
Readers will meet key figures, learn about major projects and conflicts, and gain a sense of the social and political landscape of the era. The work ties together biographical sketches, municipal development, and religious and military history to present a cohesive picture of early Montreal.
- Founding efforts and the early organization of the settlement
- Influential leaders, missionaries, and civic institutions
- Military defense, fortifications, and urban planning advances
- Daily life, trade, and governance in a growing colonial community
Ideal for readers of Canadian history and those interested in how a frontier town becomes a enduring city.