1. Consequences of Act of Union
Chapter 4
Notes #4

2. Recap...
Act of Union was the 2nd constitution during the timeframe studied in this chapter.
It unified Upper Canada and Lower Canada.
1 Legislative Assembly for all of Canada (42 members from each West and East)

3. French Canadiens were given less power and rights (assimilation)
French Canadiens were given less power and rights (assimilation). Brought on a lot of fear and anger.
Some British colonists were not happy with changes either.

4. Political Changes
Reformers from both sides (English and French) joined together to form a political alliance.
both groups were unhappy and wanted change

5. Louis Hippolyte Lafontaine
The leaders:
Louis Hippolyte Lafontaine
leader of the French Canadiens Reformers
Robert Baldwin
leader of the English Canadian Reformers

6. Robert Baldwin
Louis Hippolyte Lafontaine

7. Together they fought to obtain a responsible government.
Lafontaine also wanted to protect French Canadiens rights

8. Economic Changes
Since early 19th century, Great Britain practices protectionism.
protectionism = economic policy that is put in place to protect its country
and colonies from foreign
exchange

9. Free trade
This freedom to buy and trade from anyone is good for individuals but bad for businesses.
(more competition)

10. This meant that Canadian goods and materials had to compete with the resl of the world.
(and shipping costs was a disadvantage)

11. Responsible Government
The end of protectionism meant that Canada:
had to take charge of their own economic affairs
was given more political autonomy

12. Canada had more of a say on internal affairs
Great Britain still controlled external affairs
Note… still not a full democratic system

13. 1948:
Reform alliance won a majority of seats in election
Responsible Government put in place
see document 55 on page 42

14. Difference: Executive Council now were elected by people