How did the French colonial system differ from the British system in North America?

The French and British colonial systems in North America differed significantly in terms of trade, alliances, governance, cultural assimilation, economy, settlement patterns, exploration, and military strategies.

French Colonial System:

In New France, the French focused on the fur trade and establishing alliances with Native American tribes. They maintained a more centralized governance with direct control from the French Crown. The French also encouraged cultural assimilation by intermarrying with Native American populations. Their economy in North America was heavily reliant on fur trading and strategic military outposts were established to protect trade routes.

British Colonial System:

In the Thirteen Colonies, the British prioritized agriculture and trade. They developed a more decentralized governance system with local assemblies and governors appointed by the British Crown. The British colonies had a more diverse economy with farming, trade, and industry. They also focused on expanding settlement patterns and exploration further inland.

The differences in approach between the French and British colonial systems ultimately shaped the development of their colonies and impacted the outcomes of conflicts such as King William's War and the French and Indian War. This divide would later lead to significant events like the Louisiana Purchase and the Quebec Act, further solidifying the distinct trajectories of French and British colonial legacies in North America.