I feel the French period of Mauritius' history is underrated. Who is with me?

While many look back at Mauritius' history and think of the British, I think the French deserve their place in the history books. They successfully colonised and developed the island to an extent that cannot be understated. A few examples:

1. Under Mahé de Labourdonnais, Port Louis was built. Some buildings and infrastructure from that era are still in use.
2. The botanical garden was also built during that time.
3. There are probably more historical tidbits that I don't know.

The British got hold of a fully functioning, self-sustaining and unique colony. Yes, they were responsible for the demographic shift of the island from then on, but most of the hard work was done by the French.

That is all.