Thegovernor of New Francewas theviceroyof theKing of Francein North America. A Frenchnobleman,he was appointed to govern the colonies ofNew France,which includedCanada,AcadiaandLouisiana.The residence of the Governor was at theChateau St. Louisin the capital ofQuebec City.Acadia, Louisiana, and the towns ofTrois-RivièresandMontrealhad their own particular governors.
Prior to the establishment of the 1663Sovereign Council,the highest positions in New France were that ofGovernorandLieutenant-General,which were often held by the same person. The Governor then had responsibilities over both military and civil affairs in the colonies.
With the new royal administration of 1663, the title ofgovernor generalwas given to the person responsible for the military and diplomatic relations. The duties of administration of justice, police and finance were given to theIntendant,who presided over the Sovereign Council. The Governor General answered to the FrenchSecretary of State of the Navyand theController General of Finance.
Beginning withCharles de Montmagny,First Nationsreferred to the Governor asOnontio,meaning 'Great Mountain'. Each Onontio was the head of the Franco-Indian alliance.
List of governors
edit| Office Holder | Term | Appointed by |
|---|---|---|
| Cardinal Richelieu | 1627–1632 | Louis XIII |
| Samuel de Champlain | 1632–1635 | Louis XIII |
| Charles de Montmagny | 1635–1648 | Louis XIII |
| Louis d'Ailleboust de Coulonge | 1648–1651 | Louis XIV |
| Jean de Lauson | 1651–1657 | Louis XIV |
| Pierre de Voyer d'Argenson, Vicomte de Mouzay | 1657–1661 | Louis XIV |
| Pierre Dubois Davaugour | 1661–1663 | Louis XIV |
