Legacy : how French Canadians shaped North America

Summary: Traces of the French-Canadians' contribution to North American history can be found in all regions of the continent. They travelled farther than one would expect, exploring the land and a wide variety of fields of human activity (science, arts, economy, etc.). Through their audacity, their courage and their determination, they shaped Canada - and, to a smaller but still significant extent - the United States. The story of a dozen French-Canadian pioneers, from the era of Nouvelle-France up to the 20th century, in a series of biographical essays written by Canadian personalities and leading authors. Through the lives of these extraordinary persons, the authors reflect on the French-Canadian legacy. They are all convinced that Canada would not be what it is today were it not for these French-speaking Canadians who explored the land, hung on to their culture while respecting that of others, longed for peace, fought with courage, and stood up for a brand of humanism that helped shape the country we live in today.