When was the 1st French settlement built?

The first French settlement in North America was Fort Caroline, built in 1564 by French Huguenots (Protestants) under the leadership of Jean Ribault.

However, it's important to note:

* Fort Caroline was short-lived. It was captured and destroyed by the Spanish in 1565.

* The first permanent French settlement in North America is considered to be Quebec City, founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain.

So, depending on what you consider a "settlement", the answer could be either 1564 or 1608.