John Alexander Macdonald: The Founding Father of Canada

“I don’t care for office for the sake of money, but for the sake of power, and for the sake of carrying out my own

views of what is best for the country.”

15 Interesting Facts about Macdonald

• 15 Facts about John A. Macdonald: The Most Interesting Man In The World

Early Life• Born January 11th, 1815 in

Glasgow, Scotland, moved to Canada at a young age

• Was a talented lawyer, even though he did not have his license to be a lawyer

• Fought against the English Rebels at Montgomery’s Tavern

• Religion: Anglican

Marriage• Macdonald married his cousin

Isabella Clark in 1843. He loved her dearly and they had one son together

• She had numerous health problems and was addicted to opium, she died in 1857

• In 1867, he remarried, this time to Agnes Bernard, this marriage lasted until his death in 1891

Political Career• Macdonald rose to prominence in

politics in 1843 when he was only 28 years old

• He was a member of the tory party (Conservative) beliefs: continuing tradition and keeping Great Britain involved in Canada’s rule

• He was a well-known politician during this time and many respected his views

• He was known for energy, vision for Canada to be united, and his public speaking skills

Political Career: Years to Confederation• Macdonald was not fond of the Responsible

Government established in Canada:– He felt that more could be done to make Canada a better

place to live– The responsible government was new and progressive

and Macdonald was a true conservative

• Macdonald stressed importance the commercial expansion of Canada westward through railway development (CPR) • He also placed importance on the clergy and felt

religion had to be part of Canadian society

Political Career: Years to Confederation• Macdonald wanted to create a Confederation,

which other British colonies (Nova Scotia, NB, Newfoundland) could join

• Macdonald was rivals with George Brown and the True Grit Party: because of their different beliefs

• The two parties reconciled their differences and united with George Cartier and the Parti Bleu in Canada East: This Coalition Government worked to establish a Canadian Confederation

• Macdonald’s enemies were then the radical Parti Rouge and others who did not want Confederation

John A.: Achievements and Failures• Macdonald and his allies with their coalition

government managed to convince the legislative assembly (those in charge of Canada) to allow Canada to become a confederation

• After many failed governments and failed attempts, Macdonald finally accomplished his goal and the dominion of Canada was formed on July 1st, 1867

• Canada West: Ontario and Canada East: Quebec• He was appointed the first Prime Minister of

Canada as well and was Prime Minister for 19 years

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