October 29

Pierre François Xavier de Charlevoix was a Jesuit missionary who traveled extensively in New France. He explored the Great Lakes region and mapped parts of the Mississippi River basin. Charlevoix documented Indigenous cultures, flora, and fauna in detailed travel accounts. His multi-volume Histoire et description générale de la Nouvelle France became a foundational work on early American history. He later returned to Europe, where he lectured on geography and history. Charlevoix’s writings influenced European perceptions of the New World and inspired future explorers.