Canadian Military History Gateway
Subject > Armed Forces > Military Life > Recruitment and Demobilization
Date > 1600 > 1600-1609
The soldiers accompanying early expeditions worked for private businesses, not for the state. Many were veterans of European wars, or gentlemen seeking land or gold.
Site: National Defence
Soldiers were organized into companies of about 50. Their leader, the company captain, was responsible for recruiting, training and disciplining his men.
The private companies that purchased monopolies in New France hired their own soldiers. These men were few in number, but very important in the administration of the colony.