What was the first French colony in North America?

The first French colony in North America was Quebec, which was founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain. This settlement served as a pivotal point for French exploration and trade in the region, establishing New France and acting as a base for further colonial endeavors. Its location along the Saint Lawrence River made it an ideal spot for trade and military strategy, allowing France to extend its influence throughout the surrounding territories. Quebec became a center for the fur trade and the missionary work of Jesuit priests among the Indigenous peoples. The significance of Quebec in the context of French colonization is reflected in its role as the capital of New France and its continued cultural importance in the history of Canada.