French missionaries were individuals sent by the French government or religious organizations to spread Christianity, particularly Catholicism, in various parts of the world. They played a significant role in the colonization of regions such as North America, Africa, and Asia, often establishing missions to convert indigenous populations and provide education and healthcare. These missionaries, including notable figures like Jacques Marquette and Saint Francis Xavier, often learned local languages and customs to better communicate their faith. Their efforts contributed to cultural exchanges, but they also sometimes led to conflicts with local traditions and beliefs, impacting the societies they aimed to serve.