THE ENDURING IMPORTANCE OF QUÉBEC HISTORY IN THE MODERN WORLD

Since its founding by France in 1608, the province of Québec has played an important part in the history of North America. The defeat of French forces on the Plains of Abraham near Québec City in 1759 immediately expanded Great Britain’s power in the region, ensuring Canada would be a transcontinental nation. From its strategic position during the War of American Independence to its hosting of key summits during World War II, the province has played a role in the history of the United States as well. Etienne Boudreault will discuss the long arc of Québecois history and its enduring importance in the modern world.

SPEAKER BIOGRAPHY:

Etienne Boudreault is a Québec City native who worked for two years for the Canadian Security Intelligence Service in Ottawa as a translator. He speaks French, English and Spanish and has been a tourist guide for more than 10 years, providing tours of Old Québec, local restaurants and the Château Frontenac. Boudreault also works as a freelance translator and holds a university degree from Laval University in translation. A world traveler, he was in charge of Projet Ola, building houses for people in Guatemala. He is an avid lifelong student of history, art and culture, with a special interest in battle and war history. His interest in French Canadian history springs from his family story; His mother and father’s families have been in North America for nearly 300 years.. He is also especially interested by the links between French Canadians and the United States.