Champlain's Dream
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Champlain's Dream
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Narrated by:
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Edward Herrmann
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Written by:
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David Hackett Fischer
About this listen
In this sweeping, enthralling biography, acclaimed historian David Hackett Fischer brings to life the remarkable Samuel de Champlain - soldier, spy, master mariner, explorer, cartographer, artist, and Father of New France.
We remember Champlain mainly as a great explorer. On foot and by ship and canoe, he traveled through what are now six Canadian provinces and five American states. Over more than 30 years he founded, colonized, and administered French settlements in North America. Sailing frequently between France and Canada, he maneuvered through court intrigue in Paris and negotiated among more than a dozen Indian nations in North America to establish New France. Champlain had early support from Henri IV and later Louis XIII, but the Queen Regent Marie de Medici and Cardinal Richelieu opposed his efforts. Despite much resistance and many defeats, Champlain, by his astonishing dedication and stamina, finally established France's New World colony. He tried constantly to maintain peace among Indian nations that were sometimes at war with one another, but when he had to, he took up arms and forcefully imposed a new balance of power, proving himself a formidable strategist and warrior.
Throughout his three decades in North America, Champlain remained committed to a remarkable vision, a Grand Design for France's colony. He encouraged intermarriage among the French colonists and the natives, and he insisted on tolerance for Protestants. He was a visionary leader, especially when compared to his English and Spanish contemporaries - a man who dreamed of humanity and peace in a world of cruelty and violence. This superb biography, the first in decades, is as dramatic and exciting as the life it portrays. Deeply researched, it is illustrated throughout with many contemporary images and maps, including several drawn by Champlain himself.
©2008 David Hackett Fischer (P)2008 Simon & SchusterWhat listeners say about Champlain's Dream
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Amazon Customer
- 2025-01-21
Champlain’s Vision: A Timeless Dream of Exploratio
David Hackett Fischer's "Champlain's Dream" is a masterful and meticulously researched biography that brings to life the remarkable story of Samuel de Champlain, a man whose vision, determination, and humanity helped shape the foundations of modern Canada. Fischer dives deep into the life of this extraordinary explorer, geographer, diplomat, and leader, presenting a nuanced portrait of a figure often overshadowed in history books.
What sets this book apart is Fischer's ability to balance detailed scholarship with compelling narrative storytelling. Through vivid descriptions and thoughtful analysis, Champlain emerges not just as a historical figure, but as a multidimensional person. He was a dreamer who envisioned a harmonious coexistence between Indigenous peoples and European settlers—a radical and inspiring idea for his time. Champlain's dedication to building relationships with Indigenous communities, his commitment to exploration despite immense personal risk, and his vision for a new kind of society are themes that resonate deeply today.
For anyone unfamiliar with Champlain, Fischer's work is a revelation. The book underscores Champlain’s incredible resilience, ingenuity, and moral character, while also delving into the complexities of his era. His navigation of political intrigues in France, the challenges of establishing settlements in the harsh climates of North America, and his enduring hope for a better world make him a truly fascinating individual.
I found myself captivated not only by Champlain's life story but also by Fischer's elegant prose and the depth of historical insight. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in early colonial history, exploration, or the profound stories of individuals who dared to dream big.
Champlain’s legacy deserves to be better known, and Fischer has done a remarkable job of illuminating the life of a man who was far ahead of his time. If you want to be inspired by a story of courage, compassion, and visionary leadership, "Champlain's Dream" will not disappoint. Highly recommended.
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