Louis Riel, the Rebel and the Hero - Softcover

Bowsfield, Hartwell

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0195401824 ISBN 13: 9780195401820

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 1971

Synopsis

The rise and fall of Louis Riel (1844-85) spanned only fifteen years, yet he is one of the most controversial and colourful people in our history. The central figure in two rebellions, which he led on behalf of the French-speaking half-breeds called Métis, Riel has caught the imagination of Canadians as few other historical personalities have done. His career began with the acts of resistance at the Red River Settlement in 1869, and continued through the formation of a Provisional Government and the notorious shooting of Thomas Scott in 1870, through years of mental illness and exile in the United States, to the North West Rebellion of 1885. It reached an inevitable climax with his surrender and trial and the passionate outpouring of feeling that rocked the country when he was found guilty of treason and executed. The religious and racial emotions of the time, the bigotry and opportunism of politicians, and Riel's own unstable mental condition all combine to make of his life a Canadian tragedy, one that had profound consequences for Confederation.

About this title

About the Author

Hartwell Bowsfield was an Historian and archivist. He contributed to five encyclopedias and also produced talks and scripts for CBC productions in radio and television. He was secretary of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Manitoba, on the council of the Champlain Society, chairman of the archives and local history sections of the Canadian Historical Association

Edition details

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 1971
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0195401824
• ISBN 13: 9780195401820
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 160