Filles du roi

Definition

The filles du roi, or 'daughters of the king,' were young women sent from France to New France (now Canada) during the 17th century to help populate the colony. This initiative was part of a broader strategy to bolster the French settlement in North America, addressing the gender imbalance and encouraging marriage and family life among settlers. These women were often sponsored by King Louis XIV, and their arrival significantly influenced the social structure and demographic development of New France.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Approximately 800 filles du roi were sent to New France between 1663 and 1673 to promote settlement and increase the population.
2. These women were often offered dowries and financial support to encourage marriages with male settlers, contributing to the establishment of families in the colony.
3. Many filles du roi came from impoverished backgrounds or orphanages in France, seeking new opportunities in the colonies.
4. The introduction of the filles du roi helped stabilize the population of New France, fostering a more sustainable community and economy.
5. The legacy of the filles du roi continues today, as many Canadians can trace their ancestry back to these women who played a crucial role in the early history of New France.

Review Questions

• How did the arrival of the filles du roi impact the demographics and social structure of New France?
  • The arrival of the filles du roi significantly impacted the demographics and social structure of New France by addressing the severe gender imbalance among settlers. With more women arriving in the colony, it led to increased marriages and family formation, which were crucial for establishing a stable community. This influx of women helped create a more balanced society where families could thrive, ultimately contributing to a growing population that was essential for the colony's development.
• In what ways did King Louis XIV's policies influence the migration of filles du roi to New France?
  • King Louis XIV implemented policies aimed at strengthening French colonial settlements, particularly in New France. By sponsoring the migration of filles du roi, he sought to encourage family life among settlers, thereby promoting a stable population. His support included financial incentives such as dowries for these women, which were instrumental in attracting them to marry male settlers. This initiative reflected his broader vision for expanding French influence and control in North America through a thriving population.
• Evaluate the long-term significance of the filles du roi on Canadian history and identity.
  • The long-term significance of the filles du roi on Canadian history is profound, as they laid the foundation for many modern Canadian families. By stabilizing and expanding the population of New France through their marriages and descendants, they contributed to shaping French Canadian identity. Their legacy is evident today in cultural practices, family structures, and demographic patterns across Quebec and other regions. This historical connection continues to be celebrated, highlighting the essential role these women played in the development of Canadian society.

Related terms

New France: A French colonial territory in North America, including parts of Canada and Louisiana, established in the early 17th century.

Seigneurial System: An agricultural system in New France where land was granted to seigneurs, who managed the land and required tenants to farm it, promoting settlement.

King Louis XIV: The King of France from 1643 to 1715, known for his strong centralized government and support for colonization efforts in North America.