Governor of New France - Definition and Overview

The Governor of New France was the head of state representing the King of France in North America. A French noble, he was appointed to govern the colonies of New France, which included Canada, Acadia and Louisiana. The residence of the Governor was at the Château St-Louis in the capital of Québec City. Acadia, Louisiana, the towns of Trois-Rivières and Montréal had their own governors.

Prior to the establishment of the 1663 Sovereign Council, the highest positions in New France were that of Governor and Lieutnant-General, which were often held by the same person. The Governor then had responsibilites over both military and civil affairs in the colonies. With the new royal administration of 1663, the title of Governor General was given to the person responsible for the military and diplomatic relations. The administration of justice, police, and finance was given to the Intendant, who presided the Sovereign Council. The Governor General was answering to the French Secretary of State of the Marine and the Controler General of Finance.

External link

• New France - Administration (http://www.champlain2004.org/html/administration.html)