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Settling the Northwest. Setting the stage for a rebellion. The Metis. Once Manitoba became a province there was a large movement of the Metis people into modern day Alberta and Saskatchewan. They were seeking to live on wide open land, as their traditional way of life dictated.
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Settling the Northwest Setting the stage for a rebellion.
The Metis • Once Manitoba became a province there was a large movement of the Metis people into modern day Alberta and Saskatchewan. • They were seeking to live on wide open land, as their traditional way of life dictated.
Troubles Again • Surveyors once again arrived on the scene to divide the land into settlements for Canadians. • The railway was also coming through. What problems might that pose for the Metis? • Gabriel Dumont, one of the Metis leaders, was convinced to bring an old ally out of hiding…
Return of the Rebel • Initially, Riel wanted to sort things out peacefully. • He drew up a petition to be signed by Metis, First Nations and European settlers. • This petition would demand Metis recognition, food and money for the First Nations population, and the settlers wanted cheaper farm equipment.
Ottawa’s Reaction? • Nah…
Riel’s Solution? • By 1885 there was no response from Ottawa, so Riel decided to act in the same way he did in Manitoba. • This would be difficult to do this time around though, because of the newly founded police. • Riel lost the support of the settlers, who wanted to see lawful change, not through force. He also lost support from the church.
First Nations • Only two First Nations chiefs agreed with Riel, and had their followers support his cause. • Poundmaker (Blackfoot) & Big Bear (Cree)
Duck Lake • This was the first real action of the Northwest Rebellion, where 10 mounties were killed and 11 were injured. • The NWMP retreated and word quickly spread about the Metis and First Nations rebellion. • The Northwest Rebellion is now underway!
Frog Lake • Wandering Spirit, son of Big Bear, launched an ambush at this location. • An Indian Agent, two priests and five others were killed. • This was the conflict that convinced the Canadian Government to send out military force.
Canada’s Military • General Middleton was sent to Riel’s headquarters in Batoche • Colonel Otter was sent to Battleford • General Strange was sent from Calgary to hunt down Big Bear