Early life
Jolliet was born in Trois-Rivières, New France (present-day Canada), in 1645. His father, Jean Jolliet, was a prosperous merchant and shipbuilder, and his mother, Marie d'Abancourt de Francheville, was the daughter of a wealthy landowner. Jolliet received a classical education at the Jesuit college in Quebec City.
Exploration
In 1669, Jolliet was commissioned by the Intendant of New France, Jean Talon, to explore the Great Lakes region. Jolliet traveled to Sault Ste. Marie and then followed the Lake Superior shoreline. He reached the St. Louis River in 1670 and met with the Sioux Indians, who told him about the great river to the west.
In 1673, Jolliet and Marquette set out from St. Ignace, Michigan, to find the Mississippi River. They traveled down the Mississippi River to the mouth of the Arkansas River. Jolliet returned to Quebec City in 1674 and wrote a report of his expedition.
Later life
After his return from the Mississippi River expedition, Jolliet became a successful fur trader. He also served as a government official and was appointed Royal Hydrographer of New France. Jolliet died in Quebec City in 1700.
Legacy
Jolliet is considered one of the most important explorers of North America. His expedition down the Mississippi River opened up the interior of North America to European exploration and settlement. Jolliet's map of the Mississippi River was the most accurate map of the river at the time and was used by other explorers, such as La Salle and Hennepin.
Jolliet is also remembered as a skilled diplomat and negotiator. He was able to establish peaceful relations with the Native American tribes he met on his expeditions. Jolliet's work helped to pave the way for the French colonization of North America.
Honors
Jolliet's name has been given to many places in North America, including the city of Joliet, Illinois, the Joliet Correctional Center, and the Joliet Junior College. There is also a statue of Jolliet in the Place d'Armes in Montreal, Quebec.