38 Interesting Facts about John A. Macdonald

Dan August 15, 2023

John Alexander Macdonald (1815-1891) was a prominent Canadian statesman and the first Prime Minister of Canada. He is a central figure in the history of Canada’s Confederation and played a crucial role in shaping the nation’s early development. Born in Scotland, Macdonald immigrated to Canada at a young age and eventually established himself as a successful lawyer in Kingston, Ontario.

Macdonald’s political career began in the provincial government of the Province of Canada, where he quickly rose through the ranks. He became a strong advocate for the federation of the British North American colonies into a single nation, which culminated in the establishment of the Dominion of Canada in 1867. As the first Prime Minister, Macdonald worked to bring together the diverse regions and provinces under a federal structure, balancing the interests of English and French-speaking populations, and laying the foundation for a unified nation.

Under Macdonald’s leadership, Canada expanded westward through initiatives like the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, which connected the country from coast to coast. However, his legacy is not without controversy. Macdonald’s policies towards Indigenous peoples, particularly his role in establishing the residential school system, have been criticized for their harmful impacts and contributions to cultural oppression.

Despite the complex legacy he left behind, John A. Macdonald’s influence on the development of Canada as a nation cannot be understated. His determination, political acumen, and vision for a united Canada shaped the early trajectory of the country and continue to be subjects of historical reflection and discussion.

Let’s take a look at these 38 interesting facts about John A. Macdonald to know more about him.

1. John Alexander Macdonald was born on January 11, 1815, in Glasgow, Scotland.
2. He immigrated to Canada with his family when he was five years old.
3. Macdonald’s family settled in Kingston, Upper Canada (now Ontario).
4. He initially studied law under George Mackenzie, later becoming a successful lawyer himself.
5. Macdonald was elected to the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Canada in 1844.
6. He was a key figure in the movement towards Canadian Confederation.
7. Macdonald, along with George Brown and George-Étienne Cartier, was one of the “Fathers of Confederation.”
8. He became the first Prime Minister of Canada in 1867.
9. Macdonald served as Prime Minister for three non-consecutive terms: 1867-1873, 1878-1891.
10. He was known for his political skills and ability to forge compromises between diverse interests.
11. Macdonald championed the idea of a transcontinental railway to unite Canada.
12. The Canadian Pacific Railway, completed in 1885, was a major achievement during his tenure.
13. He played a significant role in negotiating the purchase of Rupert’s Land and the North-Western Territory from the Hudson’s Bay Company.
14. Macdonald faced criticism for the Pacific Scandal, a political scandal involving bribery related to the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway.
15. He advocated for the establishment of a strong federal government.
16. Macdonald’s government introduced the National Policy, which aimed to promote economic development and protect Canadian industries.
17. He had a strong political rivalry with George Brown, who was a leader of the Reform movement.
18. Macdonald’s second wife, Agnes Bernard, was a significant influence on him and supported his political career.
19. He was known for his wit and sense of humor, often using those qualities in political debates.
20. Macdonald was knighted by Queen Victoria in 1867, becoming Sir John A. Macdonald.
21. He was a skilled debater and orator, using his speaking abilities to persuade and rally support.
22. Macdonald faced challenges managing the diverse cultural and linguistic interests within Canada, particularly English and French relations.
23. He led the Conservative Party of Canada.
24. Macdonald’s government expanded voting rights, granting the vote to some Indigenous men and non-white landowners.
25. He was a strong supporter of the British monarchy and the ties between Canada and the British Empire.
26. Macdonald’s government faced criticism for its treatment of Indigenous peoples, including the establishment of the residential school system.
27. He played a role in granting Manitoba and the Northwest Territories provincial status.
28. Macdonald survived an assassination attempt by a would-be assassin named Patrick Whelan in 1868.
29. He was involved in significant constitutional debates, including the distribution of powers between federal and provincial governments.
30. Macdonald’s leadership was instrumental in maintaining Canadian unity during challenging times, such as the threat of American expansionism.
31. He passed away on June 6, 1891, while still in office.
32. Macdonald’s funeral was a national event, attended by thousands of Canadians.
33. A statue of Macdonald stands in front of the Canadian Parliament in Ottawa.
34. His legacy is complex; while he is celebrated for his role in Confederation, his policies towards Indigenous peoples have been widely criticized.
35. Macdonald’s face appears on the Canadian ten-dollar bill.
36. His birthplace in Glasgow is now a museum dedicated to his life and legacy.
37. In 2018, the City of Kingston removed a statue of Macdonald as part of efforts to engage with Indigenous communities and reflect on his legacy.
38. John A. Macdonald’s influence on Canadian history remains significant, and his contributions to shaping the nation continue to be debated and remembered.

John A. Macdonald’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the evolution of Canada as a nation. As the visionary architect of Confederation and the first Prime Minister, his leadership skills, political acumen, and determination laid the groundwork for a united and expansive Canada. Macdonald’s achievements in shaping the nation through the creation of a transcontinental railway, economic policies, and diplomatic negotiations stand as lasting accomplishments. However, his legacy is complex, marked by both praise for his contributions to nation-building and critique for his treatment of Indigenous peoples. As Canada continues to grapple with its history and identity, John A. Macdonald’s legacy serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of leadership and the ongoing quest for understanding and reconciliation.