What was Cartier's main goal in exploring Canada?
My primary objective was to find a westward passage to the riches of Asia, specifically the Kingdom of the Saguenay that the natives spoke of. I sailed under the authority of King Francis I, seeking to expand the dominion and prestige of France. While the discovery of a passage remained elusive, my expeditions revealed the immense potential of the St. Lawrence region, not only for trade in furs and other valuable commodities, but also for establishing a new realm for our sovereign. We planted the fleur-de-lis and took possession.
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