* The Iroquois Confederacy: This powerful alliance of Native American tribes based in the Great Lakes region posed a constant threat to French settlements and fur trade routes. The Iroquois were allied with the British and Dutch, who provided them with weapons and supplies.
* The British: England and France were engaged in a long-standing rivalry for control of North America. This rivalry intensified during La Salle's time, with both countries vying for dominance in the fur trade and control of key waterways.
* The Dutch: While not as powerful as the British, the Dutch had a significant presence in North America, primarily in the Hudson River Valley. They competed with the French for control of the fur trade and strategic locations.
* Spain: France and Spain were also rivals for control of North America. They clashed over territory in Florida, Louisiana, and the Mississippi River Valley.
It's important to remember that La Salle's explorations and expeditions were primarily focused on expanding French influence in North America, which made him a target of these rival powers. He faced numerous challenges from the Iroquois, the British, and the Spanish.
For example, La Salle's Fort St. Louis (built near present-day Starved Rock State Park in Illinois) was attacked and destroyed by the Iroquois. While he wasn't directly involved in major battles against the British or Spanish, his work contributed to the growing tensions between France and its rivals.