politics in the 1920

Political Landscape of the 1920s

Transition of Leadership

  • In 1919, Prime Minister Robert Gordon retires.

  • Sir Arthur Meehan takes over as Prime Minister.

Political Situation from 1920 to 1921

  • The period is low-profile; not much occurs politically.

  • Life continues as usual until the election on December 29, 1921.

Rise of Mackenzie King

  • December 29, 1921: The Liberal Party gains power after being out since 1911.

  • Mackenzie King becomes Prime Minister, known for his eccentricities.

    • Talks to his dog and deceased mother.

    • Criticized for being a racist and anti-Semite but noted for not being sexist.

Key Policies and Actions of Mackenzie King

Focus on Social Welfare

  • Begins implementing significant social policies:

    • Unemployment Insurance: Provides support for the unemployed.

    • Old Age Pensions: Assists elderly citizens financially.

    • Mother's Allowance: Financial aid for families with young children.

The Schmuck Crisis of 1922

  • Affected by external pressures with British troops in Turkey after WWII.

  • Early 1922: Turks resist British occupation.

  • September 15, 1922: British PM sends telegram requesting military support from Commonwealth countries.

  • King declares intent to hold a parliamentary vote on September 18, allowing time for the situation to resolve itself, showcasing Canada’s growing independence.

The 1925 Election

The Process

  • September 1925: King requests an election from Governor General by protocol.

  • The Liberal Party loses to the Conservatives, who form a minority government.

    • Definition of a minority government: Winning party has less than 50% of the seats.

Dynamics of a Minority Government

  • To pass legislation, the ruling party needs support from other parties, notably the NDP.

  • The Progressives, a third party, decide to support the Liberal Party in government formation.

Political Turmoil in 1926

  • Liberal Party corruption revealed; Progressives withdraw support.

  • King returns to Bing to call an election but Bing promotes Meehan as Prime Minister instead.

  • Meehan’s short-lived government is quickly brought down due to opposition votes against the budget, leading to another election.

  • Result: King wins a majority, solidifying his power again.

Statute of Westminster and Canadian Independence

Impact of the Statute

  • Late 1930: Statute gives Commonwealth countries greater autonomy.

  • Canada retains two British controls:

    • Access to the British Privy Council as highest court until 1949.

    • Amending the Constitution required British approval until 1982.

Indigenous Rights and the Residential School System

Historical Context

  • Indigenous children forced into residential schools until 1996.

  • In 1920, school graduates automatically got the vote, but non-graduates could not vote until 1960.

  • Indigenous women marrying non-Indigenous men lose their status until legislation in 1985 rectifies this.

Women in the 1920s

Key Developments

  • The 1921 election sees the election of Agnes MacPhail as the first female Member of Parliament.

    • Serves nearly 30 years, advocating for progressive politics.

    • Associated with the Progressive Party and later the CCF, precursor to the NDP.

Quotes on Women's Empowerment

  • "I'm a believer in women in their ability to do things and their influence and power. Women set the standards for the world..." - Acknowledges the role of women in shaping society.

Conclusion

  • The 1920s in Canada reflect significant political shifts, social welfare advancements, challenges in governance, and the gradual evolution of women's rights and indigenous policies.