Here's why:
* French Exploration: French explorers, like Samuel de Champlain, began exploring the region of Acadia (which encompasses parts of present-day Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Maine) in the early 1600s.
* Early Settlements: The first permanent French settlements in Acadia were established in the 1630s, starting with Port Royal in 1632.
* Ongoing Growth and Change: The French presence in Acadia grew gradually, with more settlements being established throughout the 17th century. It wasn't a single event but rather a process of exploration, colonization, and growth.
Therefore, it's more accurate to say that French colonization of Acadia began in the 1630s and continued throughout the 17th century.