Sir John A. Macdonald Quotes

A collection of quotes by Sir John A. Macdonald.

Sir John A. Macdonald was a Canadian politician and the country's first Prime Minister. Born on January 11, 1815, in Glasgow, Scotland, Macdonald immigrated to Canada at the age of five. He studied law and soon became a prominent figure in the legal profession.

Macdonald entered politics in the mid-1840s and played a pivotal role in the discussions that led to the confederation of Canada in 1867. As the leader of the Conservative Party, he served as Prime Minister from 1867 to 1873 and again from 1878 to 1891, making him the second-longest-serving Prime Minister in Canadian history.

Throughout his career, Macdonald aimed to strengthen and unite the young nation. He spearheaded the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, which connected Canada from coast to coast and stimulated economic growth. His National Policy emphasized protectionism and industrialization, helping to develop Canada's manufacturing industry.

Sir John A. Macdonald also advocated for British imperialism and expanded Canadian territories towards the western coast. However, his policies regarding the treatment of Indigenous peoples, including forced assimilation and the residential school system, are now heavily criticized for their harmful effects.

Macdonald's contributions to Canada were significant, and he left an indelible mark on the country's growth and development. He passed away on June 6, 1891, in Ottawa, Ontario, but his legacy as a key figure in Canadian history endures.