Historical Lectures presented by Gouvernement du Québec

Dive into the heart of our history through a captivating series of talks at the International Youth Hostel. Led by passionate speakers, these conferences invite you to rediscover New France through fascinating stories, defining moments, and unforgettable figures.

Full Program

Thursday, August 6 • 11 AM
Gilbert Desmarais — First Nations and the Seven Years’ War (1756–1763)

The Seven Years’ War (1756–1763) remains relatively unknown in Québec. Often reduced to the Battle of the Plains of Abraham, it was in fact the first true world war. New France played a central role in this conflict, which affected all of its inhabitants. But what role did First Nations peoples play in this war? This lecture will explore the place they occupied in this defining moment of our history.

Thursday, August 6 • 2 PM
Augustin Boily — Bishop or Governor: The Sovereign Council Crisis

Governor Augustin de Mézy and Bishop François de Laval are both responsible for overseeing the Sovereign Council… but they also happen to be two very strong-willed men. Surely this can only go perfectly smoothly… right?

During this lecture, discover one of the first major conflicts between Church and State in Canada. A story where the thirst for power, ego clashes, and personal ambitions give rise to scenes as absurd as they are unforgettable.

Friday, August 7 • 11 AM
Samuel Venière — Québec, Gateway to the New World: Travel Stories from New France to Today

From the pioneers of New France to the great waves of immigration in the 19th century, the Port of Québec served as the gateway to the New World for hundreds of thousands of people. From Grosse Île to reception infrastructures, discover how these journeys and arrivals gave rise to moving stories that became part of a true human epic shaping the city.

Friday, August 7 • 2 PM
Louise Michaud — Acadians Step Out of the Shadows

Do you know families named Pellerin, Trahan, Bastrash, Leblanc, or Garceau? These surnames are linked to Acadians who settled in the Maskinongé region as early as 1766. Their legacy is still visible today, and Louise Michaud has traced and highlighted their history in a historical document published in 2025.

With 40 years of journalism experience, studies in history, and the discovery of her own Acadian roots through her grandmother Aldéa, Louise Michaud has made it her mission to bring these courageous Acadians out of the shadows and breathe life back into their stories.

Saturday, August 8 • 11 AM
Jacinthe Tardif — Getting Married in 1750

“Getting Married in 1750” explores the customs and popular beliefs of the New France era and compares them with those of today. Since when have brides worn white? What was the “traizain”? Why was the bride’s garter removed during the wedding feast? What happened during the blessing of the marital bed? These questions and more will be answered during this conference.

Saturday, August 8 • 2 PM
François Lafond — New France Under Martial Law? The Case of La Corriveau’s Trial

Did you know that the first years of Québec after New France were governed under military rule? The territory was placed under martial law to ensure an effective transition between the French and British regimes. The infamous La Corriveau herself was tried before a military court. Historian and content creator François Lafond shares the key moments of this unique period between two empires.

Sunday, August 9 • 11 AM
Jean-François Veilleux — The Heroes and Heroines of Québec During the Time of New France (1608–1769): A Source of Inspiration Yesterday and Today

This conference highlights remarkable men and women who shaped the history of Québec during the two and a half centuries of New France. Featured figures include explorers such as Samuel de Champlain and Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville, coureurs des bois like Étienne Brûlé, Pierre Gaultier de Varennes et de La Vérendrye, Médard Chouart des Groseilliers, and Pierre-Esprit Radisson, as well as the 764 Filles du Roy and the Carignan-Salières Regiment.

The conference also explores Indigenous leaders allied with the French, including Kondiaronk and Pontiac, pioneers such as Marguerite Bourgeoys, Jeanne Mance, and Madeleine de Verchères, along with political figures ranging from Jean Talon to Louis-Joseph de Montcalm and Louis de Buade de Frontenac.

Sunday, August 9 • 2 PM
La Société d'histoire des Filles du Roy — The Mothers of the Québec Nation

A storyteller immerses you in the fascinating history of the Filles du Roy, from their lives in France to their arrival in New France. Alongside one of these women, relive her journey of building a new life in this unfamiliar land, filled with lively anecdotes told in the language of the time, leading all the way to her settlement on a rugged frontier homestead.