Jolliet and Marquette: A New History of the 1673 Expedition

In the late 17th century, French explorers from Canada journeyed farther into the continent’s interior. Walczynski’s (park historian, Starved Rock Foundation; The History of Starved Rock) book seeks to analyze expeditions to Illinois, taking advantage of previously unavailable techniques such as linguistic analysis and bioarchaeology. The author uses these methods to retrace explorers’ steps with as much accuracy as possible, beginning with the early establishment of French settlements that later became starting points for further quests. The use of archaeology to identify Indigenous settlements that Louis Jolliet and Jacques Marquette visited will likely engage readers. Particular attention is given to Indigenous peoples’ interactions with French explorers and the resulting impact these voyages had on them and their relationships, especially when it came to trading. Overall, the book provides a good survey of French interactions with Indigenous peoples and explains that legacy, which carries through to the present day, but some readers may find the considerable level of detail intimidating.