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Robert Barry DickeyCanadian politician
Date of Birth: 10.11.1811
Country:  Canada |
Content:
- Robert Barry Dickey: A Father of Canadian Confederation
- Early Life and Education
- Judicial and Legal Career
- Political Involvement
- Role in Canadian Confederation
- Senate Career
- Personal Life
Robert Barry Dickey: A Father of Canadian Confederation
Robert Barry Dickey, a prominent Canadian political figure, played a pivotal role in the formation of the Canadian Confederation. He participated in two of the three conferences that preceded the establishment of the dominion.
Early Life and Education
Dickey received his education in the schools of Truro and Windsor. At the age of 15, he began studying law under Alexander Stewart. In 1834 and 1835, he was admitted to the bar in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, respectively.
Judicial and Legal Career
Dickey served as a judge for more than 20 years in Cumberland County, concurrently holding the position of registrar of wills. His successful career culminated in his appointment as Queen's Counsel in 1863.
Political Involvement
In 1858, Dickey became a member of the Legislative Assembly of Nova Scotia. He was part of a delegation that advocated for the construction of a railway connecting the maritime provinces with the Province of Canada. This delegation traveled to London in 1858 and 1865. Additionally, Dickey served as a director of the Nova Scotia Electric Telegraph Company.
Role in Canadian Confederation
As a delegate to the Charlottetown and Quebec Conferences in 1864, Dickey played a significant role in the formation of the Canadian Confederation. However, he initially opposed the Quebec Resolutions, believing they limited his province's financial autonomy. As a result, John William Ritchie attended the London Conference in his stead. Dickey revised his stance after appropriate amendments were made in London.
Senate Career
In 1867, Dickey became a senator representing Cumberland County. He was one of 12 senators from Nova Scotia and supported Conservative policies.
Personal Life
In 1844, Dickey married Mary Blair, the daughter of his teacher. Their son, Arthur Rupert Dickey, served as a cabinet minister in the Canadian government from 1894 to 1896.
