Legacy: How French Canadians Shaped North America

Traces of the French Canadians' contribution to North American history can be found in all regions of the continent. More often than not, we are unaware of or indifferent towards these signs. Yet the descendants of the French travelled farther than one would expect, exploring the land and a wide variety of fields of human activity (science, arts, economy, etc.). Through their audacity, their courage and their determination, they shaped Canada – and, to a smaller but still significant extent – the United States.

Legacy is the story of a dozen French Canadian pioneers, from the era of Nouvelle-France up to the 20th century. This ambitious book project takes the form of a series of biographical essays written by 15 Canadian personalities and leading authors, including Margaret Atwood, Romeo Dallaire and Ken Dryden.

Through the lives of these extraordinary persons, the authors reflect on the French Canadian legacy. They are all convinced that Canada would not be what it is today were it not for these French-speaking Canadians who explored the land, hung on to their culture while respecting that of others, longed for peace, fought with courage, and stood up for a brand of humanism that helped shape the country we live in today.