1. Louis Riel ‘Listen to Us’

2. Background The Metis : moved from the Red River area after 1875, still dissatisfied with the survey system The settlers: high cost of living, problems, poor markets, no responsible government out west The Treaties: The natives were starving, gov’t slashed funds in 1883 due to depression Riel: asked to return to help his people

3. Riel Talks to the people 1884 ; Petition of rights ‘land title’ a real concern Macdonald ignores Riel NWMP concerned about Riel’s approach and situation

4. Riel was not sure if the English-speaking White settlers would want to hear him speak. Then, the leading priest in that part of the country, Father Andre, wrote to him. Father Andre lived in Prince Albert, a town of mainly White people. Father Andre's letter said: So you must come; you are the most popular man in the country and everyone awaits you with impatience. I have only to say to you: come, come quickly.11 Riel went and spoke to a crowd of about five hundred people. After this, Father Andre reported: There was a mass meeting, such as Prince Albert had never seen; people came from everywhere, and they went back struck with the quiet and gentle way he spoke to them.