The Great Intendant

The Great Intendant is a historical biography written by Thomas Chapais. The book delves into the life and career of Jean Talon, a French statesman who served as the intendant of New France from 1665 to 1672. Talon was a key figure in the development of the French colony in North America, overseeing significant expansions of settlements, trade, and agriculture.Chapais provides a detailed account of Talon's life, from his early years in France to his appointment as intendant and his eventual return to Europe. The book explores Talon's relationships with other prominent figures of the time, including King Louis XIV and various colonial officials.Throughout the book, Chapais examines the various challenges that Talon faced during his time in New France, including conflicts with the indigenous peoples, economic struggles, and political tensions with other colonial powers. The author also provides insight into Talon's personal life, including his marriage and family relationships.Overall, The Great Intendant offers a comprehensive and engaging look at the life and legacy of one of the most important figures in the history of New France.The magistrates were vigilant, but the merchants were cunning and often succeeded in evading the tariff. In July 1667, the habitants' syndic appeared before the council to complain of the various devices resorted to by merchants to extort higher prices from the settlers than were allowed by law. So the council made a ruling that all merchandise should be stamped, in the presence of the syndic, according to the prices of each kind and quality, and ordered samples duly stamped in this way to be delivered to commissioners specially appointed for the purpose. It will be seen that these regulations were minute and severe. Trade was thus submitted to stern restrictions which would seem strange and unbearable in these days of freedom. What an outcry there would be if parliament should attempt now to dictate to our merchants the selling price of their merchandise!This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.