The term "French Settlement" refers to the establishment of French colonies in various parts of the world, particularly in North America during the 17th and 18th centuries. Notable areas included New France, which encompassed parts of present-day Canada and the United States. These settlements were primarily focused on trade, agriculture, and the spread of Catholicism. French settlers often interacted with Indigenous peoples, forming alliances and engaging in fur trade. Key figures in these settlements included explorers like Samuel de Champlain, who played a significant role in founding Quebec City. The legacy of these settlements is still evident in the cultural and linguistic influences in regions like Louisiana and parts of Canada.