<P> The French first came to the New World as explorers , seeking a route to the Pacific Ocean and wealth . Major French exploration of North America began under the rule of Francis I , King of France . In 1524 , Francis sent Italian - born Giovanni da Verrazzano to explore the region between Florida and Newfoundland for a route to the Pacific Ocean . Verrazzano gave the names Francesca and Nova Gallia to that land between New Spain and English Newfoundland , thus promoting French interests . </P>
<P> The French first came to the New World as explorers , seeking a route to the Pacific Ocean and wealth . Major French exploration of North America began under the rule of Francis I , King of France . In 1524 , Francis sent Italian - born Giovanni da Verrazzano to explore the region between Florida and Newfoundland for a route to the Pacific Ocean . Verrazzano gave the names Francesca and Nova Gallia to that land between New Spain and English Newfoundland , thus promoting French interests . </P>
when did the french come to north america
when did the french come to north america
1524
1524