TROUPES DE LA MARINE

The '''Troupes de la Marine''' (Troops of The Marine) were controlled by the French Minister of Marine, who was also responsible for the French navy, overseas trade, and French colonies. The Troupes de la Marine were dispatched by King Louis XIV in 1683 to replace the French regulars in New France, and were used to garrison other French colonies. Although the strength of the force varied widely over time, by the time of the French and Indian War, there were over a hundred independent companies, of approximately 50 officers and men each, serving throughout France's North American colonies.
The Troupes de la Marine were first under control of Joseph-Antoine de LaBarre, governor of New France. Their first mission was at the future site of Oswego, New York, in Iroquois country. By the French and Indian War the Troupes de la Marine had Canadian officers, although many of the rank and file continued to come from France. The companies were considered colonial regulars and were well trained in both guerilla and conventional warfare.