John de Brébeuf

John de Brébeuf was a French Jesuit missionary who played a significant role in the early 17th century as an advocate for Indigenous peoples in Canada. He arrived in New France in 1625 and dedicated his life to educating and converting the Huron-Wendat people to Christianity. Brébeuf is also known for his deep respect for Indigenous cultures and languages, having learned the Huron language and documented their customs. He became a martyr in 1649 during conflicts with the Iroquois, and is recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church for his missionary work and sacrifices.