Political Expansion and Challenges
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Conestoga College *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
1160
Subject
History
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
1
Uploaded by LieutenantStarZebra34
Political Expansion and Challenges
2-1
– Read the course content topics that cover the Red River Rebellion and the
Northwest Rebellion. Then, watch the videos on the trial of Louis Riel. Write a 200-300
word blog that addresses the following questions. Your blog must address these
questions.
Why was there such a strong division of opinion in different parts of Canada
about Louis Riel and his rebellions? Which groups in Canada supported Riel,
and why? Who opposed him and why?
From today's perspective, could Riel's trial be considered fair?
Do you believe Riel was insane? Why or why not?
The North-West Rebellion of 1885, headed by the charismatic Métis leader Louis Riel, and the Red River
Rebellion of 1869–1870 stand out in the records of Canadian history as critical events that sparked an
intense national discussion. The differing perspectives of Riel and his uprisings were firmly established in
the intricate socio-political context of Canada during the 1800s.
The Métis, who were of mixed European and Indigenous descent, as well as the Prairie First Nations
people, firmly supported Louis Riel. When Canadian government policies began to intrude on these
people' traditional way of life, Riel became a symbol of resistance. Those who felt ignored and alienated
found great resonance in his attempts to defend Métis rights and culture.
On the other hand, many settlers and the Canadian government fiercely opposed Riel's uprisings. They
saw him as a danger to law and order as well as national cohesion. Riel's command for Thomas Scott's
execution during the Red River Rebellion exacerbated already existing hostilities. Riel was viewed by
English-speaking Canadians, especially those in Ontario, as a traitor and a rebel against the government
of the recently established Dominion of Canada.
From a modern standpoint, the political tension surrounding Riel's trial begs the question of its fairness.
The emotional climate of the day affected the trial, and Riel was declared guilty of high treason. Some
contend that rather than being an impartial evaluation of Riel's deeds, the trial was a reflection of the
political expediency and prevailing prejudices.
Riel's story becomes even more intricate when one considers the question of his sanity. Because of his
unpredictable behavior, some of Riel's contemporaries declared him insane, but others contend that Riel
was a visionary leader who recognized the value of upholding Métis rights in the face of oppression by
the government. Evaluating his mental health is a subjective process, and perspectives on this issue are
still divided.
Discover more documents: Sign up today!
Unlock a world of knowledge! Explore tailored content for a richer learning experience. Here's what you'll get:
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help