de-Lery.1557-58.Voyage-to-Brazil

The French Interlude

Francisco Portocarrero's Report

• Portocarrero explains his attempts to secure boats from the governor-general of Brazil.

  • Requested oar-propelled boats to pursue the carracks.

  • Resentment from the governor-general due to Portocarrero's demands.

  • Despite negative responses, Portocarrero emphasizes that soldiers and sailors are willing to join the expedition.

  • Reports the declining status of the land and the lack of defense compared to the time of Tome de Sousa.

  • Warns of the greed and administrative issues threatening the territory.

Jean de Léry's Chronicle

• Overview of French settlement in Brazil led by Nicolas Durand de Villegagnon in 1555.

  • Settlement referred to as "Antarctic France."

  • Important chronicles produced by Catholic friar André Thevet and Protestant Jean de Léry.

• De Léry's background includes a year spent in Brazil, offering insights on settlers’ motives, challenges, and indigenous peoples.

Motives for the Journey to Brazil

• In 1555, Villegagnon expresses desire to find a refuge from persecution in France and serve God in the New World.

  • Gaspard de Coligny supports this venture, seeing potential for riches.

  • King Henry II provides Villegagnon with ships and funding for the voyage.

Arrival in Brazil

• Villegagnon encounters difficulties at sea but reaches Brazil in November 1555.

  • Initially considers a rocky islet but settles on an island near Guanabara Bay.

  • Builds a fort for protection from Portuguese and indigenous threats.

Request for Reinforcements

• Villegagnon requests additional ministers and individuals from the Church of Geneva to assist in spreading the Gospel.

  • Response from the Church is positive, with several individuals agreeing to join.

Departure from France

• De Léry and a company of fourteen set sail on September 10, 1556, after gathering support.

  • Journey involves challenges and delays in preparation.

First Impressions of Brazil

Approaching West India

• On February 26, 1557, first sight of Brazil noticed, causing excitement among the crew.

  • Their landing at Huuassou put them face-to-face with local indigenous peoples who viewed them as enemies.

Encounter with Indigenous Peoples

• The crew exchanges gifts with the indigenous Margaia people and receives food supplies.

  • Observations of savage customs, including their distinctive body modifications and lifestyle.

Descriptions of Indigenous Life

• Men depicted as adorned with lip piercings and painted bodies; women wear elaborate bone earrings.

  • Margaia people express willingness to trade, though underlying tensions exist due to their enmity with the French.

Navigation Challenges

Sailing to Cape Frio

• The journey continues to confront numerous challenges, including inclement weather.

  • The vessel is almost wrecked by strong waves but narrowly escapes disaster.

• Fresh water is acquired from uninhabited islands along the route, where unique bird species are found.

Arrival at Cape Frio

• After enduring hardships at sea, the crew arrives at Cape Frio, a key harbor for French navigation.

  • Encounters with Tupinamba, friendly indigenous allies, provide news and local resources.

Entering Guanabara Bay

• On March 7, 1557, the expedition finally arrives at Guanabara Bay where Villegagnon has established a settlement.

  • A cannon salute upon arrival signifies formal contact with the settlement.