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Sir John Alexander Macdonald: Architect of a Nation

Richard Simmons

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Published in Nation Maker: Sir John A Macdonald: His Life Our Times

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Sir John Alexander Macdonald Nation Maker: Sir John A Macdonald: His Life Our Times

Early Life

Sir John Alexander Macdonald was born on January 11, 1815, in Glasgow, Scotland. His father, Hugh Macdonald, was a merchant, and his mother, Helen Shaw, was the daughter of a sea captain. Macdonald had a happy childhood, and he received a good education at the Glasgow High School. In 1820, the Macdonalds emigrated to Canada, settling in Kingston, Ontario. Macdonald's father died soon after their arrival, and Macdonald was forced to go to work to help support his family. He worked as a clerk in a law office, and he also studied law at the University of Toronto. In 1836, Macdonald was called to the bar, and he began practicing law in Kingston.

Nation Maker: Sir John A. Macdonald: His Life, Our Times

by Richard J. Gwyn

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	10913 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	690 pages

Political Career

Macdonald entered politics in 1844, when he was elected to the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Canada. He quickly rose through the ranks of the Conservative Party, and in 1856, he became Premier of the Province of Canada. Macdonald served as Premier for two terms, and during that time he played a key role in the movement for Confederation. In 1867, Macdonald became the first Prime Minister of the Dominion of Canada. He served as Prime Minister for four terms, and during that time he oversaw the expansion of Canada's territory, the development of the Canadian economy, and the establishment of many of Canada's institutions.

Legacy

Sir John Alexander Macdonald is considered one of the most important figures in Canadian history. He is known as the "Father of Confederation" for his role in uniting the provinces of British North America into the Dominion of Canada. Macdonald also played a key role in the development of Canada's economy, and he established many of Canada's institutions. Macdonald's legacy is complex, and he has been both praised and criticized for his actions. However, there is no doubt that he was a major figure in Canadian history, and his contributions to the country are still felt today.

Sir John Alexander Macdonald was a complex and controversial figure, but he was also a major figure in Canadian history. His contributions to the country are still felt today, and he is considered one of the most important figures in Canadian history.

Nation Maker: Sir John A. Macdonald: His Life, Our Times

by Richard J. Gwyn

4.6 out of 5