A bit negative, eh HB? It's no secret that the exploration of 'British North America' (and New France, for that matter) was largely motivated by the hope of finding a shortcut to the Orient for trade purposes. Had a viable route been found along the Northwest Passage, presumably supply points would have no doubt turned into Canadian towns on the northern coast. Ok, this is pure philosophy because it didn't happen that way, but for example that was the story of the Dutch post in Cape Town, South Africa - originally just a supply point for the Dutch-East India company heading to India and Malaysia for trade - now (for better or worse), a highly cosmopolitan city with its own culture and history, and plenty of Dutch/Afrikaner flavour. Franklin and his crew are part of Canada's history just like Cartier, Champlain, Fraser, Thompson and Mackenzie - none of whom wandered around 'Canada' per se.
Don't worry about the Harper connection. Good for him for funding and supporting this venture. I can't stand him either.