Date: 1849
Source: NAC/ANC Galt Papers
The 1849 Alexander Tilloch Galt Letter to Sherbrooke Constituents is a document written by Alexander Tilloch Galt, a prominent Canadian politician and one of the Fathers of Confederation, in which he outlines his vision for the future of Canadian political and economic development.
In the letter, Galt argues that Canada must move away from its reliance on the British colonial government and take steps towards greater self-determination and independence. He proposes a series of measures to promote economic growth and development, including the expansion of the railway system and the establishment of a national banking system.
Galt's letter also reflects his belief in the importance of national unity and the need to bridge the cultural and linguistic divides that existed within Canada at the time. He argues that the country must work towards a common goal of economic and political development in order to achieve greater prosperity and stability.
The document is significant because it reflects the political and economic challenges faced by Canada in the mid-19th century, as well as the efforts of Canadian leaders to secure greater autonomy within the British Empire. Galt's letter also highlights the ongoing debate over the relationship between Quebec and the rest of Canada, and the role of cultural and linguistic identity in Canadian national identity.
Today, the Alexander Tilloch Galt Letter to Sherbrooke Constituents is considered an important historical document that provides valuable insight into the political and economic aspirations of early Canadian leaders. It is also a reminder of the ongoing struggle for national unity and the challenges of building a diverse and multicultural society.
To make Canada great, there must be opened to her inhabitants those elements of emulation and pride which will call forth all their energies; the dissensions her citizens must be terminated by abolishing distinctions of race; they must be made to feel that they form part of one great country, and that its destinies are entrusted to their guidance. Were it possible for Canada to become an integral part of the British Empire, still, its position is such as to blend its interests more naturally with the United States to make the former connection less desirable. But knowing as we do the constitution of Great Britain, and the varied interests which govern its legislation, it is not a question of choice whether we shall be incorporated with Great Britain, or with the United States, but, shall we remain a dependency of the former, or become an integral part of the latter country? The permanent interests of Canada, its present state, and its future prospects all point to the adoption of annexation; and unless it be the case, contrary to my belief, that we now possess all the means of development as a people that are essential for prosperity, we may expect to see the country languish, and latent discontent ever on the eve of breaking out, until our independence be acknowledged. A union with the United States will give Canada a place among nations; the accumulated wisdom of their legislators will become our own; we shall share in the triumph of their unparalleled progress; we shall reap the fruits of that political skill which has thus far shielded their institutions from harm; our interests will be watched over, and our industry protected and encouraged, by their wise commercial policy; and, although no longer dependent on Great Britain, we shall feel that we have served her well in ensuring that harmony between the two countries which is now constantly in peril from conflicting interests.
Cite Article : www.canadahistory.com/sections/documents
Source: NAC/ANC Galt Papers
Reference: Article by (Staff Historian), 2023
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