- Catholic Missions: French explorers often had a strong religious agenda and sought to spread Catholicism among the indigenous peoples they encountered.
- Fur Trade: The French established a robust fur trade with the Native American tribes, exchanging goods for valuable pelts. This economic motive drove much of their exploration and settlement.
- Exploration of the Mississippi River: French explorers like Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet played a significant role in mapping and exploring the Mississippi River and its tributaries.
- Fort and Settlement Building: The French established numerous forts and settlements along rivers and waterways to facilitate trade and further their exploration.
- Exploration of the Great Lakes: The French explored the Great Lakes region and established settlements such as Detroit and Fort Frontenac.
- Alliance with Native Americans: The French often formed alliances with Native American tribes, building diplomatic and economic relationships that influenced their exploration and survival in the New World.
One characteristic that does not align with French exploration is:
- Extensive Land Claims: The French did not make extensive land claims in North America compared to other European powers like the Spanish or the English. They focused on establishing a network of trading posts and forts rather than large-scale territorial acquisition.