People’s Voice (1815-1855)

• The end of the War of 1812, a fight between Britain and the United States, ended in 1815
• The end of the War of 1812 gave way for a time of peace and stability
• A big social change at this time was a rise population increase through higher birth rates and immigration
• Increased immigration came primarily from Europe especially Ireland and Scotland which gave way to cultural diversity as well population growth
• Urbanization took place in cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Quebec City as they grew in both population and importance
• At this time Louis-Joseph Papineau was a leader of the reform movement in Lower Canada who advocated for political change and representation for French Canadians
• Push for a responsible government was big during this time
• Louis-Joseph Papineau in Lower Canada and William Lyon Mackenzie in Upper Canada both advocated for democratic reforms
• Rebellions of 1837-1838 showed the peoples discontent and desire for political change
• Louis-Joseph Papineau and other leaders of the Patriotes played a role in organizing and leading the Rebellions of 1837-38. This was done to challenge the colonial government's authority and demand to get more political autonomy for French Canadians
• The economy had a growth in industries like timber, shipbuilding, and agriculture
• The Erie Canal was built in 1825 and facilitated trade and transportation which boosted economic development
• The Rush-Bagot Treaty was signed in 1817, which demilitarized the Great Lakes and promoted peaceful relations between Britain and the United States
• John Molson was an entrepreneur and brewer whose brewery became one of the largest in North America helping make Montreal a commercial hub
• Women, Indigenous peoples, and workers began to push for greater recognition and representation
• The women's suffrage was a movement where women advocated for their right to vote
• Another movement was the Indigenous rights movement
• Egerton Ryerson was a prominent educator and advocate for public education. He played a crucial role in shaping educational policies and advocating for accessible schooling regardless of background