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Wilfrid LaurierCanadian politician, Prime Minister of Canada from July 11, 1896 to October 5, 1911
Date of Birth: 20.11.1841
Country:  Canada |
Content:
- Wilfrid Laurier: Canada's First Francophone Prime Minister
- Rise to Power
- Prime Ministership (1896-1911)
- Foreign and Economic Policies
- Expansion and Development
- Opposition and Legacy
Wilfrid Laurier: Canada's First Francophone Prime Minister
Early Life and Political BeginningsWilfrid Laurier was born into a prominent Quebec family with a strong liberal tradition. At 11, he moved to an English-speaking community, becoming bilingual. He later studied law at McGill University and joined the Liberal Party, despite his earlier affiliation with the radical francophone movement.
Rise to Power
In 1874, Laurier was elected to Parliament and served as Minister of Inland Revenue under Alexander Mackenzie. After becoming the Liberal leader in 1887, he led the opposition against the Conservative government.
Prime Ministership (1896-1911)
In 1896, Laurier's Liberals won the election, ending Conservative dominance. As Prime Minister, he addressed the contentious Manitoba Schools Question, allowing for government-funded French schools with certain conditions.
Foreign and Economic Policies
Laurier sought closer ties with the United States while developing Canada's industry and infrastructure. He completed the Canadian Pacific Railway and supported the growth of private enterprise.
Expansion and Development
Under Laurier, Canada expanded westward, with the creation of the provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan, as well as the Yukon Territory. He established the Canadian Navy in 1910.
Opposition and Legacy
Laurier's Liberals won four consecutive elections, but his support for free trade with the United States proved unpopular. In 1911, the Liberals were defeated, and Robert Laird Borden became Prime Minister. Laurier opposed Canada's participation in World War I and conscription.
Laurier died in 1919 as the Leader of the Opposition. His 15-year tenure as Prime Minister remains Canada's longest, and he is consistently ranked among the top three Prime Ministers by Maclean's magazine. His portrait graces the Canadian $5 bill.
