Red Resistance

What is settler-colonialism primarily based on?

Settler-colonialism is based on the displacement, oppression, and erasure of Indigenous peoples and cultures to make the land 'home' for settlers.

What does the term terra nullius refer to?

Terra nullius refers to the ideological theory that land is unoccupied and thereby available for settlement, supporting genocidal practices against Indigenous populations.

Who were the majority inhabitants of the Red River Settlement?

The majority of the Red River Settlement were Métis, who developed a distinct culture from mixed marriages between European fur traders and Indigenous women.

What did the Hudson's Bay Company receive during the Rupert’s Land Transfer?

The Hudson's Bay Company received £300,000, 1/20th of fertile land in former Rupert’s Land, and retained title on trade posts.

What role did William McDougall play in Red River after the transfer?

William McDougall was appointed Lieutenant-Governor of Rupert’s Land and the North-Western Territory and sent land surveyors west, but he was stopped from entering Red River.

Who was Louis Riel and what was his significance?

Louis Riel was a French-speaking Métis leader who became a leading champion for Métis rights and challenged the Canadian government regarding land rights.

What were the demands of the Provisional Government in Red River?

The Provisional Government prepared to negotiate entry into Confederation and emphasized the protection of Métis land rights.

What did Louis Riel do at Upper Fort Garry?

Louis Riel and his supporters seized Upper Fort Garry and established an irregular army, taking prisoners they suspected of plotting against the Provisional Government.

Why did the execution of Thomas Scott inflame opposition to the Métis?

Thomas Scott was an Orangeman and his execution by a predominantly Catholic-Métis group was seen as creating a Protestant martyr, inflaming opposition to Métis demands.

What was the outcome of the Manitoba Act of 1870 for the Métis?

The Manitoba Act granted the Métis land rights, though not in large intact blocks, securing their rights formally while allowing for future mishandling by the federal government.

What was the purpose of the Wolseley Expedition?

The Wolseley Expedition was a military show of force sent to oversee the transition of power in Red River and aimed at establishing authority.

What led to British Columbia entering Confederation?

British Columbia entered Confederation in 1871 due to economic pressures, including debt from gold rushes and a demand for a railway connection to Eastern Canada.

What was revealed during the Pacific Scandal?

The Pacific Scandal revealed that Hugh Allan had secretly funded John A. Macdonald’s Conservative campaign and had been promised a railway contract, leading to the downfall of Macdonald's government.

Why are railways considered important in Canadian history?

Railways were a central component of transportation and played a crucial role in the economic promises associated with Confederation, particularly for provinces like Prince Edward Island.