, Québec Province, Canada (Quebec)
1668 - The Carignan-Salières regiment is recalled to France, but several hundred choose to remain behind, many in return for local seigneuries.

In 1668, the Carignan-Salières Regiment was officially recalled to France after completing its mission of securing New France against Iroquois attacks and stabilizing the colony. However, several hundred soldiers chose to remain, taking advantage of an opportunity to settle permanently. Many were granted seigneuries—large parcels of land under the French seigneurial system—which allowed them to farm, establish homes, and become part of the colony’s emerging social and economic structure.

The decision of these soldiers to stay had a lasting impact on New France. It provided a boost to the colony’s population, introduced experienced men familiar with both military and frontier life, and helped secure key areas against future threats. Their presence also contributed to the expansion of agriculture, the creation of new settlements, and the gradual solidification of a French colonial society that combined military, civic, and economic roles.

The 1668 retention of Carignan-Salières veterans illustrates how New France leveraged military resources for colonization, turning soldiers into settlers to strengthen both population and territorial control. This blend of defense and development helped lay the foundation for a more resilient and self-sustaining colony, ensuring that New France could continue to grow despite its small population and the ongoing challenges of frontier life.

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