Jean Ribault\u27s Colonies in Florida

A story often told but still begging for a fuller explanation is the tale of the French settlers in sixteenth century Florida. It is possible to determine to an extent why they came, where they settled and how they fared, what happened to them, and the strong points and weak points in their organization. What is more illusive is the measure of sincerity in their undertaking. A few questions which baffle the historian arise, and there are only partial answers to some of the questions. Was the motive for colonization religious ? Did the English, especially Queen Elizabeth I, collaborate in founding and financing the expeditions? How valid were the French claims to the area of Terra Florida? Could the Spanish really justify the measures taken against the French