Book details
Montreal, 1535-1914. Vol. 1. Under the French Régime, 1535-1760
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Metadata
- Gutenberg ID
- 47809
- Title
- Montreal, 1535-1914. Vol. 1. Under the French Régime, 1535-1760
- Language
- en
- Book source
- Project Gutenberg
- Description max 80 words
-
William H. Atherton's comprehensive history chronicles Montreal from Jacques Cartier's 1535 arrival to the French regime's end in 1760. Blending military exploits, religious colonization, and feudal development, this volume offers a vivid narrative of early Canadian life under intense Iroquois pressure.
- Summary up to 500 words
-
William H. Atherton's *Montreal, 1535-1914* chronicles the dramatic evolution of Montreal from an indigenous trading post to a fortified colonial stronghold under French rule. The narrative begins with Jacques Cartier's explorations in the 1530s, identifying the site as Hochelaga, followed by decades of failed colonization attempts until Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve and Jeanne Mance successfully established Ville-Marie in 1642. Atherton details the harsh frontier realities, including the constant threat of Iroquois raids, which tested the colony's resolve. Heroic defenses, such as Adam Dollard des Ormeaux's stand in 1660, are highlighted as pivotal moments where Montreal served as a 'forlorn hope' that ultimately saved New France. The book explores the complex social and political structures of the era, tracing the transition from company-run seigneuries to royal government. It examines the profound influence of religious orders, particularly the Jesuits and Sulpicians, who acted as missionaries, administrators, and civic leaders. Atherton utilizes extensive primary sources, including maps and journals, to depict the physical growth of the town, its fortifications, and the intricate relationships between French settlers, Huron allies, and Iroquois enemies. The text covers the consolidation of the feudal system, the establishment of military confraternities, and the resilience required to withstand repeated attacks. Through a blend of military history, ecclesiastical development, and social analysis, Atherton paints a vivid picture of Montreal's struggle for survival and its eventual consolidation as a central pillar of the French empire in North America.
- LLM editorial rating
- 4.2/5
- Download URL
- https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/47809.epub.noimages
- Local file path
-
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People
Authors
- William H. Atherton
Classification
Categories
- Biography
- History