Louis Riel (1844-1885) remains a prominent figure in Canadian History and Politics. Leader of the Métis and widely regarded as the founder of the province of Manitoba, Riel’s story remains a troubled and debated topic more than a hundred years after his death in 1885 by hanging for treason.
The story of the two Rebellions of the Canadian West are brought to life in this drama-documentary. The historic events are fully explained and documented. The film looks at the causes of both rebellions, formation of Manitoba, the Metis and Native tribes and their leaders, Big Bear and Poundmaker. The film concludes with the trial and execution of Louis Riel.
The film also contains speeches and written comments of many key figures including Louis Riel, Prime Minister Macdonald, Gabriel Dumont, and General Middleton, among others. These authentic dramatizations assist in painting an excellent portrayal of Louis Riel and the events of his time period allowing viewers to judge the historic events for themselves that lead to a tragic period in Canadian history.
Designed for Grades 6 to University / Ages 10 to Adult / PPR included
English Language Only / ©2004 / 40 minutes
Playing time: 40 minutes
Copyright: 2004
Grade Level: 6 through University
Age Level: 10 through Adult
Format: DVD
SKU: DVD-174
Price: $92.50
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Louis David Riel (English /ˈluːiː riːˈɛl/; 22 October 1844 – 16 November 1885) was a Canadian politician, a founder of the province of Manitoba, and a political and spiritual leader of the Métis people of the Canadian prairies.[1] He led two resistance movements against the Canadian government and its first post-Confederation Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald. Riel sought to preserve Métis rights and culture as their homelands in the Northwest came progressively under the Canadian sphere of influence. He is regarded by many as a Canadian folk hero today.[2]
The first resistance was the Red River Rebellion of 1869–1870.[3] The provisional government established by Riel ultimately negotiated the terms under which the modern province of Manitoba entered the Canadian Confederation.[4] Riel was forced into exile in the United States as a result of the controversial execution of Thomas Scott during the rebellion.[5] Despite this, he is frequently referred to as the “Father of Manitoba”.[6] While a fugitive, he was elected three times to the Canadian House of Commons, although he never assumed his seat. During these years, he was frustrated by having to remain in exile despite his growing belief that he was a divinely chosen leader and prophet, a belief which would later resurface and influence his actions. He married in 1881 while in exile in Montana, and fathered three children.
Riel returned to what is now the province of Saskatchewan to represent Métis grievances to the Canadian government. This resistance escalated into a military confrontation known as the North-West Rebellion of 1885. It ended in his arrest, trial, and execution on a charge of high treason. Riel was viewed sympathetically in Francophone regions of Canada, and his execution had a lasting influence on relations between the province of Quebec and English-speaking Canada. Whether seen as a Father of Confederation or a traitor, he remains one of the most complex, controversial, and ultimately tragic figures in the history of Canada.[7]
