Social Studies 7 Chapter 7 Part B

The "why" of the events in chapter 7.

Why was the Legislative Assembly so frustrated with the Governor?

Because of the Veto Power. Even though the Assembly was elected by the people to represent their needs, the Governor and his Appointed Councils could block any law they passed. This made the Assembly feel powerless and ignored.

Why did the "Cliques" (Family Compact & Château Clique) want to keep all the power?

They were wealthy elites who wanted to protect their own economic and political interests. They believed that they were "better fit" to rule than common farmers or French Canadiens, and they wanted to ensure government money was spent on projects that helped their businesses (like canals and banks).

Why did the Great Migration (starting in 1815) lead to tension in the colonies?

The massive arrival of British and Irish immigrants put a huge strain on land and resources. In Upper Canada, it led to arguments over who got the best farmland. In Lower Canada, it made the Canadiens worry about Assimilation—they feared they would be outnumbered and lose their culture.

Why did the protest movement turn into an armed Rebellion in 1837?

Because the British government ignored the petitions (like the 92 Resolutions). When the people realized that peaceful complaining wasn't changing the system, radical leaders like Mackenzie and Papineau convinced them that force was the only way to break the power of the "Cliques."

Why was the Seigneurial System a "flashpoint" for rebellion in Lower Canada?

The British and the Château Clique wanted to replace it with British land-holding systems. For the Canadiens, the Seigneurial system was a symbol of their French identity. Attacking the system felt like an attack on their culture, pushing them toward rebellion to protect their way of life.

Why did Lord Durham recommend the Act of Union (1841)?

He believed the conflict in Lower Canada was a "war of two races." He thought the best way to stop the fighting was Assimilation—by joining the colonies, the English-speaking population would eventually outvote the French, forcing them to become more "British."

Why was Lord Elgin’s decision in 1848 so important for democracy?

Because he accepted the will of the Assembly even when he disagreed with their law. By doing this, he proved that the government was now Responsible to the people. This ended the era of the Governor acting like a dictator and started modern Canadian democracy.