Montreal, 1535-1914. Vol. 1. Under the French Régime, 1535-1760

The volume opens a sweeping portrait of a city that began as the Iroquoian village of Hochelaga visited by Cartier in 1535 and later blossomed into a bustling French settlement. It follows the arrival of the first missionaries, the establishment of the fortified town of Ville‑Marie in 1642, and the early struggles for survival against harsh winters, rival powers, and the fur trade’s fickle fortunes. Through vivid illustrations and lively narrative, readers glimpse the daily life, religious fervor, and communal spirit that shaped Montreal’s unique character before the British takeover.

Beyond chronicling events, the author seeks to awaken a modern sense of civic pride, urging listeners to see the city’s past as a foundation for its future. The work emphasizes how the mingling of cultures, the ambitions of early settlers, and the evolving marketplace forged a distinct identity still evident today. It offers an accessible, engaging entry point for anyone interested in the roots of one of North America’s most storied cities.