Jacques Cartier: A Detailed Biography

Jacques Cartier (1491–1557) was the Breton navigator whose three voyages for France (1534, 1535–1536, 1541–1542) opened North America to French exploration and colonisation. Commissioned by King Francis I to find a western route to Asia, he instead discovered the Gulf of St. Lawrence and claimed Canada for France. This biography covers his Saint-Malo origins, encounters with Indigenous peoples, winter hardships, search for the mythical Kingdom of Saguenay, and lasting legacy, as documented by the Encyclopaedia Britannica, the Canadian Encyclopedia, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Heritage.

Early Life in Saint-Malo

Breton Sailor

Born on December 31, 1491, in the port of Saint-Malo, Brittany, Cartier grew up in a seafaring town. Experienced in navigation and possibly having sailed to Brazil or Newfoundland, he was chosen by Admiral Philippe de Chabot for his 1534 expedition, as detailed by the France Archives.

First Voyage (1534)

With two ships and 61 men, Cartier explored the Gulf of St. Lawrence, named Prince Edward Island, and erected a cross at Gaspé claiming the land for France. He kidnapped two sons of Iroquoian chief Donnacona as guides, as documented by the Canadian Museum of History.

Second Voyage (1535–1536)

Stadacona and Hochelaga

With three ships and 110 men, Cartier sailed up the St. Lawrence to Stadacona (Quebec City) and reached Hochelaga (Montreal). The harsh winter killed 25 men from scurvy; Cartier learned from the Iroquois to use white cedar tea (vitamin C), as preserved by the Parks Canada.

Third Voyage (1541–1542)

Appointed captain-general of a colonisation fleet led by Jean-François de La Rocque de Roberval, Cartier founded Charlesbourg-Royal near Quebec but abandoned it after another brutal winter and hostile Iroquois. He brought back “diamonds” (quartz) and “gold” (pyrite), as recorded by the Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Personal Life

Cartier married Catherine des Granches in 1520; they had six children. He lived comfortably in Saint-Malo after retiring from exploration.

Death and Legacy

Jacques Cartier’s Enduring Impact

Cartier died of the plague on September 1, 1557, in Saint-Malo, aged 65. Though he never found Asia or riches, his voyages gave France its claim to Canada. The name “Canada” derives from his mishearing of the Iroquoian “kanata” (“village”). The Cartier Bridge in Montreal and Canada’s highest honour (Order of Canada) bear his name, as celebrated by the Government of Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jacques Cartier

Why Is Jacques Cartier Famous?

For three voyages (1534–1542) that laid the foundation for French Canada.

What Did Jacques Cartier Discover?

The Gulf of St. Lawrence and the St. Lawrence River; first European to map interior Canada.

Where Was Jacques Cartier Born?

Saint-Malo, France, December 31, 1491.

Did Cartier Find the Northwest Passage?

No — he thought the St. Lawrence led to Asia.

What Does “Canada” Mean?

Iroquoian “kanata” — village or settlement.

Was Cartier the First European in Canada?

No — Vikings and Cabot preceded him, but he explored the interior.

How Did Jacques Cartier Die?

Plague on September 1, 1557, aged 65.