key term - Quebec Conference

Definition

The Quebec Conference was a pivotal meeting held in October 1864, where representatives from the British North American colonies gathered to discuss the terms of Confederation. It built upon the earlier Charlottetown Conference, where the idea of uniting the colonies was first proposed. The Quebec Conference resulted in the drafting of a framework for a federal union, setting the stage for the eventual creation of Canada as a Dominion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Quebec Conference was attended by 16 delegates representing the provinces, including key figures such as John A. Macdonald and George-Étienne Cartier.
2. During the conference, discussions focused on important topics like representation in government, division of powers between federal and provincial governments, and economic benefits of uniting.
3. The outcome of the Quebec Conference included a resolution known as the '72 Resolutions,' which outlined the terms for confederation and provided a blueprint for Canada's governance structure.
4. The resolutions included provisions for a parliamentary system and established that provinces would have authority over local matters, ensuring regional autonomy within the new federation.
5. The Quebec Conference was crucial for gaining support from various colonies by addressing their concerns, ultimately leading to a more unified push for Confederation.

Review Questions

• How did the discussions at the Quebec Conference shape the future structure of Canada's government?
  • The discussions at the Quebec Conference led to the creation of the '72 Resolutions,' which outlined key features of Canada's governmental structure. These included establishing a federal system that divided powers between federal and provincial governments. This framework was essential in ensuring that provinces retained control over local affairs while creating a unified nation with a strong central government.
• What were some key issues debated during the Quebec Conference that reflected the diverse interests of British North American colonies?
  • During the Quebec Conference, delegates debated crucial issues such as representation in government, financial arrangements for new provinces, and how to address regional concerns. These discussions reflected the need to balance interests from different regions, ensuring that smaller provinces felt adequately represented alongside larger ones. This balancing act was vital for achieving consensus and support for Confederation among all colonies.
• Evaluate how the outcomes of the Quebec Conference influenced the passing of the British North America Act in 1867.
  • The outcomes of the Quebec Conference were instrumental in laying the groundwork for the British North America Act in 1867. The '72 Resolutions crafted at this conference provided a detailed outline of how Canada would be governed, addressing both federal and provincial powers. By addressing key concerns from various colonies during this meeting, leaders were able to build broad support for Confederation, making it easier for British lawmakers to pass the Act and officially create Canada as a Dominion.

Related terms

Charlottetown Conference:

A meeting held in September 1864 where leaders from Canada East, Canada West, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick first discussed the idea of Confederation.

British North America Act:

The legislation passed by the British Parliament in 1867 that officially created the Dominion of Canada, uniting Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.

Fathers of Confederation: The group of political leaders who played significant roles in bringing about Confederation and shaping the future of Canada, including figures like John A. Macdonald and George-Étienne Cartier.