Confederation of Canada: Key Events and Figures

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.