From Champlain to the Cirque du Soleil —
400 years of French in North America
9:30 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 12, 2009
Corley Auditorium in Webster Hall
Admission: free

The French Canadians first arrived in North America over 400 years ago. Although relatively few in number, they have had a major influence on the development of North America. They have been exploring, mapping and settling the continent since the colony was first established in Québec City in 1608, and have influenced local development and customs, many of which remain with us to this day. This presentation will attempt to put into perspective the lasting contribution of the French Canadians to the establishment of a North American mentality, as well as their role in the growth of the continent, including the United States.

Marc T. Boucher was named to head the Québec Government office in Chicago in June 2007. For the two previous years, he had taught at the University of Québec’s Graduate School of Public Administration (ÉNAP). Mr. Boucher previously served as director of the Québec Government Office in Los Angeles. Before that time, he held the position of director general of public affairs at the Québec Ministry of International Relations and served for one year as director general of policy and planning. He has also served as counsellor for U.S. National Affairs in Washington and New York, and was director of the Québec Government Office in Atlanta from 1994 to 1996.