Sir John A. Macdonald Day

Sir John A. Macdonald Day History

Sir John A. Macdonald Day commemorates the birth of the country's first Prime Minister, Sir John Alexander Macdonald. The observance aims to honour Macdonald's significant contributions in shaping the nation, including his vital role in the creation of the Canadian Confederation and the establishment of various institutions that have become cornerstones of the Canadian identity. This day serves as a reminder of the values and principles that Macdonald stood for, such as unity, progress, and the development of strong democratic institutions.

Sir John A. Macdonald, born on January 11, 1815, in Glasgow, Scotland, immigrated to Canada with his family in 1820. He played a pivotal role in Canadian history as one of the founding fathers of the Confederation in 1867, which led to the formation of present-day Canada. As the country's first Prime Minister, Macdonald served for almost 19 years, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's democratic framework and socio-economic landscape. His influence can still be seen today through the continuous development of modern Canada and the values its residents uphold.

The celebration of Sir John A. Macdonald Day chiefly involves educational institutions, museums, and historical societies across Canada. These establishments often organize special events, such as guest lectures, discussions, and exhibits, to educate and engage the public about Macdonald's life and accomplishments. Sir John A. Macdonald Day is observed each year on January 11, the anniversary of Sir John's birth.

Top facts & quotes about Sir John A. Macdonald Day

• Before entering politics, Sir John A. Macdonald was a successful and popular lawyer in his Canadian hometown of Kingston, Ontario.
• John A Macdonald's son, Hugh John, was also a lawyer and a politician who went on to become the premier of Manitoba in 1899.
• John A. Macdonald was responsible for creating Canada's national police force, the North-West Mounted Police. Today they are known as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
• As to his statesmanship, it is written in the history of Canada. It may be said without any eaggeration whatever, that the life of Sir John A. Macdonald ... is the history of Canada - Sir Wilfrid Laurier
• If I had influence over the minds of the people of Canada, any power over their intellect, I would leave them this legacy: Whatever you do, adhere to the Union. We are a great country, and shall become one of the greatest in the universe if we preserve it; we shall sink into insignificance and adversity if we suffer it to be broken - Sir John A. Macdonald

In the News and Trending for Sir John A. Macdonald Day

Top things to do for Sir John A. Macdonald Day

• Take the time to educate yourself about Canada's history and the monumental role that Sir John A. Macdonald played in shaping it. Watch CBC's documentary John: A Birth of a Country to learn more.
• Visit the Bellevue National Historic Site in Kingston, Ontario to see the former home of Sir John A. Macdonald. Costumed staff present the daily life of Sir John A. Macdonald's family in the fully restored house and gardens that once belonged to the Macdonald family.
• Order the Sir John A. Macdonald Coin Pack or any of his other collectable packs from the Royal Canadian Mint. The set includes commemorative coins with Macdonald's face to go along with standard issue 10 dollar notes. They also feature a head-shot of Canada's first Prime Minister.
• Visit one of the many Sir John A. Macdonald monuments throughout Canada. The largest and most well-known is located in Place du Canada square in Montreal, Quebec.