de Champlain Due to internal turmoil, it is not until 1603 that another explorer of significant relevance appears in the New World. Samuel de Champlain may be viewed as the actual founder of New France and the sole reason for initial French success in maintaining its hold upon the New World. Milo Milton Quaife, author of Wisconsin, Its History and Its People, described Champlain as:A dauntless soul of imperial vision, who throughout his career in America labored with unflagging zeal to promote the westward spread of French influence; and while the eyes of Champlain never gazed on the beautiful wilderness which was then Wisconsin, he was in the truest sense one of the foremost “fathers” of our [state]. An explorer at heart, Champlain looked upon New France with great relish. With the French government once again organizing commercial companies with the goal of colonizing the New World, Champlain received his chance. Thus, “in 1603, Champlain joined an expedition promoted by the Company of One Hundred Associates, which had been granted a monopoly of the trade and entrusted with the administration of affairs in New France.” After arriving in the New World, Champlain continued on to the island of Hochelaga. Unable to proceed further, he engaged the local natives about the geography of the area in which he used to draw up rudimentary maps. His mission being one of only small exploration while paying particular attention to possible settlements, Champlain was quickly satisfied and returned to France with glowing appraisals. However, it would take another five years before he was able to return. Thus, in 1608, Champlain arrived in New France determined to found a colony. However, there were many obstacles that stood in his way. The winters were harsh, knowledge of the area was in demand, and new methods of supply had to be established, while all around the French were surrounded by the native po...
