History Flashcards
(18 cards)
Clear Grits
political group in Canada west
Conservatives
political group in Canada west
Parti Bleu
political group in Canada East
Parti Rouge
political group in Canada East
Politician
a person who is professionally involved in politics, especially as a holder of or a candidate for an elected office.
Colony
A territory governed by another country. Before the Confederation, present-day Canada consisted of several British colonies.
Confederation
The process by which British colonies in North America united to form the Dominion of Canada on July 1, 1867.
Political Deadlock
A situation in the Province of Canada (modern-day Ontario and Quebec) where Canada East and Canada West had equal seats in government, making it hard to pass legislation due to constant disagreement.
George-Étienne Cartier
A key Father of Confederation from Canada East (Quebec) who supported French-Canadian interests and worked closely with John A. Macdonald to unite the colonies.
John A. Macdonald
Canada’s first Prime Minister and a leading architect of Confederation. He was instrumental in creating the Canadian Pacific Railway and building national unity
Charlottetown Conference
A meeting in 1864 where leaders from various British North American colonies discussed the idea of uniting. This was the first major step toward Confederation.
Reciprocity Treaty
An 1854 trade agreement between the United States and British North America allowed for the free exchange of certain goods; it was canceled in 1866, pushing Canadian colonies to unite for economic strength.
Representation by Population
A principle where the number of elected representatives is based on population size; Canada West (Ontario) pushed for this as it grew larger than Canada East (Quebec).
CPR (Canadian Pacific Railway)
A transcontinental railway was completed in 1885 that connected Eastern Canada to British Columbia, crucial for national unity and economic development.
Coalition Government
A government formed by multiple political parties working together. In the 1860s, political deadlock in the Province of Canada led to a coalition that helped bring about Confederation.
Why was Ottawa chosen as the capital city?
Ottawa was chosen as the capital because it was located on the border of Canada East and Canada West, making it a compromise between French and English populations, and it was far from the U.S. border, making it more secure from attack.
Lord Durham’s Thoughts?
that Upper and Lower Canada be united into one province, and. the introduction of responsible government for all colonies in British North America and assimilate Lower Canada’s francophones
Factors influencing confederation: list and explain.
Political Deadlock
Constant disagreements between Canada East and Canada West made it hard to pass laws, leading to a need for a new system of government.
Economic Issues
The end of the Reciprocity Treaty with the U.S. hurt trade, and uniting the colonies could create a larger internal market and stronger economy.
Need for a Railway (CPR)
A railway would link the colonies, improve trade and communication, and allow for better defense and expansion.
Threat of American Expansion
Fears of U.S. invasion or takeover after the Civil War encouraged the colonies to unite for defense.
British Support for Union
Britain wanted the colonies to be more self-reliant and supported the Confederation as a way to reduce its costs and responsibilities.
Desire for Independence and National Identity
Many leaders wanted more control over local affairs and to create a united, self-governing country.
