When did the French establish settlements near the Mississippi River?

1699
From 1699 to 1763, the future state of Mississippi was part of the French colony of Louisiana. During these years, the French explored the region, established settlements and military outposts, engaged in political and economic relations with the area's American Indians, and sought to establish a profitable economy.

Which French settlements were established at St. Lawrence River?

Samuel de Champlain founded the city of Québec in the colony then known as Canada. Another half century passed before France tried again. In 1604, French settlers established the colony of Acadia on the land around St. Gulf of Lawrence.

Why did the French build forts near rivers?

To limit British influence along their frontier, the French built a series of forts from Lake Erie toward the forks of the Ohio (present-day Pittsburgh). Because rivers were so important for transportation, the forks of the Ohio were a strategically important location that both nations wanted to control.

When was the fort under St.Lawrence built?

Sketch showing the island as it appeared in 1759 with the defensive features of Fort Levis. It did not take long for the British to begin their advance up St. Lawrence River in their gunboats towards the capture of Montreal, so the fort was immediately started.

Where did the French settle in the Gulf of St Lawrence?

Description: A map showing the early French settlements around St. Lawrence Gulf and along the St. Lawrence River to Montreal.

Why was Chimney Island built in the St Lawrence River?

Chimney Island was flooded in the 1950s and was once Isle Royale. Named "Isle Royale" by the French in 1759, a decision was made to build a fortification on the 800-foot island in the middle of St. Lawrence to repel any invading British ships coming upriver from Kingston.

What was the first French settlement in Louisiana?

This fort, named Maurepas in honor of the French Minister of Marine and Colonies, was the first European settlement in Mississippi and the first capital of the French colony of Louisiana. Fort Maurepas contained four bastions made of square logs and twelve guns. Inside it contained several structures such as barracks, a storehouse and a chapel.