"Troublous Times in Canada" is a historical account written by John A. Macdonald, the first Prime Minister of Canada. Macdonald sheds light on a critical period in Canadian history that followed the conclusion of the American Civil War in 1865. Macdonald expresses his concern that Canadian authors and historians have largely overlooked the gravity of the events that transpired during this time. The author emphasizes that the Fenian troubles of 1866 and 1870 posed significant dangers to Canada, which, if not addressed promptly, could have led to the severance of Canada from British dominion. Macdonald draws on his personal experiences serving on the Niagara frontier during the Fenian Raids of 1866 and 1870. He aims to provide a faithful account of the events during these campaigns, relying not only on his memory but also on official records and reports from the Militia Department in Ottawa and the Ontario Bureau of Archives in Toronto. "Troublous Times in Canada" by John A. Macdonald serves as a historical record of the Fenian troubles in Canada, offering insights into the challenges faced by the young nation during a critical period in its history.
John A. Macdonald (1815-1891) was a Canadian statesman and the first Prime Minister of Canada. Born in Scotland, he immigrated to Kingston, Ontario, at a young age. Macdonald played a crucial role in the Confederation of Canada in 1867, which established the Dominion of Canada. He served as Prime Minister for almost 19 years, in non-consecutive terms, making him one of the longest-serving leaders in Canadian history. Macdonald's leadership was instrumental in expanding Canada's territory through the acquisition of Rupert's Land and the Northwest Territories. He also oversaw the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, connecting the country from coast to coast. Macdonald's policies aimed to promote economic growth, national unity, and the protection of British interests. Despite his accomplishments, Macdonald's legacy is not without controversy. He implemented policies that adversely affected Indigenous peoples, including the residential school system. His government also faced corruption scandals, including the Pacific Scandal. John A. Macdonald's contributions to Canadian nation-building and his impact on the country's political landscape make him a significant figure in Canadian history.
