Confederation of Canada: Key Events and Figures

What was a significant reason for the formation of the Confederation of Canada?

Which conference first initiated discussions about Canadian Confederation?

What was established by the British North America Act on July 1, 1867?

Which colony initially opposed Confederation due to fears of losing autonomy?

What condition did Canada East (Quebec) impose in supporting Confederation?

Why did Britain support the Confederation of Canada?

John A. Macdonald was a key advocate for Confederation from which region?

Which colony ultimately supported Confederation due to fears of economic disadvantages?

What was the main purpose of the Quebec Conference in 1864?

Which document served as the foundation for the British North America Act of 1867?

What key outcome resulted from the London Conference of 1866-1867?

Who primarily played a significant role in convincing Maritime leaders to consider Confederation?

What was the date of effect for the British North America Act, which created the Dominion of Canada?

Confederation of Canada

Confederation unified the British North American colonies to address political deadlock, economic needs, and defense fears, like US annexation and Fenian Raids.

Key Conferences

Charlottetown Conference (1864): A meeting initially focused on Maritime union, but the Province of Canada proposed a larger union including all British North American colonies.
Quebec Conference (1864): Drafted the 72 Resolutions, establishing a federal system (House of Commons based on population, Senate equal regional representation) and outlining federal and provincial powers, including revenue control and provincial payments.
London Conference (1866-1867): Finalized the details with the British government, culminating in the British North America Act (BNA Act) being passed by the British Parliament, establishing Canada as a Dominion on July 1, 1867.

Key Figures and Events

John A. Macdonald: Advocate for a stronger alliance within the colonies during the Charlottetown Conference.
Establishment of modern Canada: Confederation is seen as the birth of modern Canada.
First Prime Minister: John A. Macdonald became Canada's first Prime Minister.
Capital: Ottawa was chosen as the capital city.

Supporting Colonies

Canada West (Ontario): Strong supporter, driven by John A. Macdonald's desire for a united colony.
Canada East (Quebec): Support was conditional on securing rights for French language, religion, and education.
New Brunswick: Joined for economic gains, defense, and trade.
Nova Scotia: Joined for similar reasons.

Opposing Colonies

Prince Edward Island (PEI): Opposed, fearing loss of autonomy.
Newfoundland: Opposed, fearing economic disadvantage.

British Perspective

Britain supported Confederation to reduce their administrative and financial burdens while maintaining influence within the British Empire.
The British government viewed it as a practical response to the colonies' defense and economic needs, including the threat of American growth and the aftermath of the American Civil War.

This quiz explores the Confederation of Canada, focusing on the key conferences that shaped its formation, including the Charlottetown, Quebec, and London Conferences. It highlights important figures like John A. Macdonald and the significance of the British North America Act. Test your knowledge on the events that united the British North American colonies.