A Few Good Men?

Louis Riel and John A. Macdonald both made outstanding contributions to Canada, leaving behind legacies of leadership and determination. Today, we honour both of these men by placing their images on the Canadian postage stamps; however they do not equally deserve this honour. Louis Riel represented a cause, the Métis, while John A. Macdonald was desperately trying to avoid annexation. Macdonald expanded Canada’s territory at all costs, never truly listened to the grievances of the Métis, and was responsible for the execution of their leader, Louis Riel. All of Macdonald’s actions towards the Métis were unjustified and immoral, though his image as an honourable gentleman often remains. Canadians have become blinded by the fact that he was the first Prime Minister, but to accurately judge his contributions to our country, his mistakes also need to be examined.