The people who discovered and explored Canada and North America, did so for many reasons. The first known visitors, the Vikings, discovered North America by accident and left for reasons still not understood. Columbus discovery of North America in 1492 was also an accident as he tried to find a cheap, quick sea route between Europe and Asia. Many other explorers followed, but instead of finding riches such as gold and jewels, found waters teaming with fish and plentiful furs. Some explorers came in the name of a King; some in the name of God; and many for the profit of a company or for themselves. All explorers had to deal with many hardships but were helped and guided by the Native people they found living there.

"Program 704".

Introduction -- First Contact -- First Explorers -- Fur Trade, Exploration and Settlement -- Missionaries and Native People -- West Coast Exploration -- Explorers and Native People -- Summary.