History of Quebec City

Founded by the French in the early 17th century as a capital for their New France aspirations in North America, Quebec City has always been at the centre of strategic affairs in this part of Canada. Even though the country eventually fell under the control of the British, Quebec Province has remained decidedly French in every aspect. Today, this fascinating city exudes an atmosphere more akin to provincial France than North America.

New France is born

Quebec City was founded in 1608 by the French explorer Samuel de Champlain at a strategic site along the banks where the St Lawrence River narrows. As the first colony of New France, Champlain built two forts to defend the village from attacks by the British and Native Indians. Quebec City’s first inhabitants were fur trappers, explorers and missionaries, although the native Algonquin people had long known about the site, calling it Kebec.

The British move in

Throughout most of the early days of Quebec City, the French were constantly warding off British attempts to take over the town. With only half-hearted support from the French monarchy for their New World possessions, the British had little trouble overwhelming the local forces.

In the summer of 1759, General James Wolfe led British troops into Quebec City and defeated the French at the Battle of the Plains of Abraham. This battle marked the end of New France and the beginning of British Canada.

The British boom

In many ways, the British brought a new level of prosperity to Quebec City. They invested heavily in the town, helping local industries such as fishing, fur trading and shipbuilding to rapidly expand. The British also strengthened the city’s fortifications by building an imposing star-shaped fort and a massive stone wall around the perimeter, both of which are still prominent parts of the city’s landscape today.

French roots run deep

When Canada was created in 1867 by the Act of Confederation, Quebec City became the capital of Quebec, one of the four original colonial provinces of the new country. Despite having British overlords, the people of Quebec remained strongly French in their thinking, nationalism and way of life. To this day, Quebec often toys with the prospect of seceding from Canada to create an autonomous French-speaking republic.  

Modern Quebec City

Whatever the political future holds for this city, it will be undeniably French. Widely considered to be the most French city in North America, 95 per cent of Quebec City’s residents claim French as their mother tongue. As you wander the streets of this lovely European-style city, you’ll be hard pressed to hear any English being spoken. Although government is the main business of the capital, tourism makes up most of its economy and as such, it’s one of the most charming and magical towns in North America.