History Browser

Introduction by W.A.B. Douglas, Director Directorate of History, Program Chairman. Articles in a variety of languages including: English, German, French, Italian, Portugese, Spanish, Russian, Greek.

A list of the most important military engagements, both inside and outside Canada, that had an effect on the country.

Professional soldiers were a recent development in the Europe of 1500. They fought for pay, not for loot or feudal obligation, and could have firearms as weapons.

Some 200 ‘rondelles’ - round shields carried by infantry swordsmen, more commonly called ‘rondaches’ - formed part of the armament sent to Canada in 1541. Swordsmen still formed an important part of infantry contingents in mid-16th century European armies.

This crossbowman wears the white and black livery worn by the members of the Cartier and Roberval expedition to Canada during 1541-1542. These men were well armed and well equipped. In this period, each soldier wore an iron helmet and a breastplate, carried a sword and dagger, and sometimes wore livery clothing. Black and white were not only the colours of Brittany, the starting point of the expedition, but also those of French King François I at this time. Reconstruction by Michel Pétard. (Canadian Department of National Defence)