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Samuel de Champlain, often called the "Father of New France," was motivated to explore due to a combination of reasons including economic pursuits, national glory, and a genuine interest in geography and cultures.
1. Economic Pursuits: Champlain, like many explorers of his time, was looking for new trade routes and commercial opportunities. He was particularly interested in the fur trade, which was highly profitable in Europe. By finding new territories and rivers, he aimed to establish lucrative trading networks.
2. National Glory: Champlain was also driven by a sense of national duty. Explorations during the 16th and 17th centuries were often matters of national pride, and by claiming new lands, Champlain was contributing to the prestige and power of France. The European powers were competing to expand their empires, and exploration was a direct way to do so.
3. Interest in Geography and Cultures: Champlain had a strong interest in geography and the cultures of indigenous peoples. He was known for his detailed maps and writings that chronicled not only the geography of the lands he explored but also the customs and ways of life of the Native American tribes he encountered.
4. Religious Motives: There was also a religious aspect to his explorations. Champlain was a devout Catholic, and part of his mission was to spread Christianity to the indigenous peoples of the New World. This was in line with the broader goals of European colonial powers of the time, which often included the conversion of natives to Christianity.