Red River Rebellion PDF

1. Overview of the Red River Resistance ​ The Red River Resistance (also known as the Red River Rebellion) took place in 1869-1870 in what is now Manitoba. ​ The resistance was a conflict between the Métis people (mainly French-speaking and mixed-race settlers), Indigenous groups, and...

1. Overview of the Red River Resistance ​ The Red River Resistance (also known as the Red River Rebellion) took place in 1869-1870 in what is now Manitoba. ​ The resistance was a conflict between the Métis people (mainly French-speaking and mixed-race settlers), Indigenous groups, and the newly formed Canadian government. ​ The main reason for the resistance was concerns over the Canadian government’s plan to take control of the Red River area without recognizing the rights of the people already living there. 2. Key Figure: Louis Riel ​ Louis Riel (1844-1885) was a Métis leader, a politician, and the central figure in the Red River Resistance. ​ Riel was born in St. Boniface (now part of Winnipeg) and became a prominent figure in the fight for Métis rights. ​ He led the resistance to protect the Métis culture, land rights, and way of life from the incoming Canadian government. 3. Causes of the Red River Resistance ​ Canadian Expansion: In 1867, Canada became a country, and the government began to plan for westward expansion, including taking control of the Red River Settlement. ​ Land Rights Issues: The Canadian government didn’t consult with the Métis, Indigenous peoples, or settlers about the land and their rights. This caused fear that their land would be taken away. ​ Fear of Assimilation: The Métis and other settlers were worried that they would be forced to change their language, culture, and traditions if they became part of Canada. 4. The Events of the Red River Resistance ​ Surveying of Land (1869): The Canadian government sent a survey team to measure land in the Red River area without consulting the local people. This upset the Métis, as they feared it was the first step to losing their land. ​ Formation of a Provisional Government: In response, Louis Riel formed a Provisional Government in November 1869. This government aimed to negotiate with Canada for the rights of the people in the Red River area. ​ The Battle of Red River (1870): The resistance escalated, but the Métis were able to defend their interests without large-scale violence. ​ Negotiation & The Manitoba Act (1870): The Red River Resistance led to successful negotiations with the Canadian government. The Manitoba Act was passed in 1870, creating the province of Manitoba and recognizing the rights of the Métis. 5. Summary: Why Was the Red River Resistance Important? ​ The Red River Resistance was crucial because it marked a turning point in Canadian history, especially for the Métis and Indigenous peoples. ​ It led to the creation of Manitoba and the first significant step towards western Canadian expansion. ​ Louis Riel’s leadership played a major role in advocating for the rights of minority groups in Canada.