Conservatism

Definition

Conservatism is a political and social philosophy that promotes the preservation of traditional institutions, values, and practices. It often emphasizes stability, order, and continuity over radical change, valuing established norms and authority. This ideology was particularly influential during key events in Canadian history, as it shaped the views of those who were cautious about rapid reform and advocated for a more gradual approach to governance and social progress.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During the Charlottetown Conference in 1864, conservative leaders emphasized the need for a united approach to governance, advocating for a federal structure to ensure stability.
2. Key conservative figures like John A. Macdonald played pivotal roles in promoting the idea of Confederation as a way to maintain British influence and order in Canada.
3. Conservatism at this time was closely tied to British colonial values, which emphasized loyalty to the Crown and traditional authority structures.
4. The Quebec Conference solidified many conservative ideas about governance, including a preference for a strong central government to unify the provinces.
5. Opposition to radical reform movements during this period was often rooted in conservative beliefs that prioritized maintaining social order and established customs.

Review Questions

• How did conservatism influence the discussions at the Charlottetown Conference?
  • Conservatism significantly shaped the discussions at the Charlottetown Conference by promoting the idea of uniting British North American colonies under a federal system. Conservative leaders argued for stability and continuity, favoring a centralized government that could maintain order among the diverse provinces. This perspective led to a cautious approach towards Confederation, emphasizing gradual change rather than radical reform.
• Evaluate the role of conservative leaders like John A. Macdonald in shaping Canada's Confederation.
  • John A. Macdonald and other conservative leaders played crucial roles in shaping Canada's Confederation by advocating for a federal government that would unify the provinces while preserving traditional British values. They argued that a strong central authority was necessary to maintain order and stability amidst diverse regional interests. Macdonald’s leadership helped secure support for Confederation among those wary of rapid change, demonstrating how conservatism influenced the political landscape of early Canada.
• Analyze the impact of conservative thought on Canadian identity formation during the period leading up to Confederation.
  • Conservative thought had a significant impact on Canadian identity formation in the lead-up to Confederation by instilling values of loyalty, tradition, and stability. The emphasis on preserving British heritage and institutions created a sense of shared identity among diverse populations. Conservatives argued that unity under a strong federal government would safeguard these values, shaping how Canadians perceived their national identity as distinct yet rooted in established traditions, ultimately influencing how Canada evolved as a nation after 1867.

Related terms

Liberalism:

A political ideology that emphasizes individual freedoms, equality, and the importance of government intervention to promote social justice and economic opportunities.

Confederation:

The union of the British North American colonies into a single Dominion of Canada in 1867, which was significantly influenced by conservative thinkers who advocated for a strong central government.

Monarchism: A political system that supports a monarchy as the form of government, often associated with conservative beliefs in tradition and hierarchy.