The Report on the Affairs of British North America, often known as the Lord Durham Report, was published in 1839 and was a pivotal document in shaping the future of Canada. Lord Durham was appointed by the British government to investigate the causes of the 1837 Rebellions in Upper and Lower Canada. His report not only addressed the immediate causes of the uprisings but also outlined a comprehensive plan for the future of British North America.
Here are some of the key recommendations of the Lord Durham Report and their underlying reasons:
1. Union of Upper and Lower Canada:
* Recommendation: Uniting Upper and Lower Canada into one province, to be called "Canada."
* Reason: Durham believed that the existing division between the French-speaking Lower Canada and the English-speaking Upper Canada fostered division and fueled the rebellions. He argued that a unified province would create a stronger, more united entity, and prevent future unrest.
2. Responsible Government:
* Recommendation: Granting responsible government to the united province, meaning the executive council (the cabinet) should be responsible to the elected assembly rather than the British governor.
* Reason: Durham recognized the growing desire for self-governance amongst Canadians. He argued that responsible government would address grievances, promote greater political participation, and strengthen loyalty to the British crown.
3. Assimilation of French Canadians:
* Recommendation: Encouraging the assimilation of French Canadians into English-speaking Canadian society through the promotion of English language and culture.
* Reason: Durham saw the French language and culture as a barrier to unity and national development. He believed that by promoting English, the province would be more cohesive and readily integrated into the British Empire.
4. Land Reform:
* Recommendation: Implementing land reform measures to encourage settlement and economic development, including the establishment of land grants and the removal of restrictions on land ownership.
* Reason: Durham understood the need for economic growth and expansion in British North America. Land reform measures aimed to encourage population growth, stimulate agriculture, and create opportunities for economic advancement.
5. Strengthening the Executive:
* Recommendation: Enhancing the powers of the governor and the executive council to effectively govern the province.
* Reason: Durham believed that a strong executive was essential for maintaining order and ensuring the efficient administration of government. He emphasized the importance of a strong central authority to handle issues of security and national development.
Impact and Controversy:
The Lord Durham Report had a significant impact on the development of Canada. Its recommendations led to the Act of Union in 1840, which formally united Upper and Lower Canada into the Province of Canada. The report also laid the groundwork for the eventual introduction of responsible government in Canada, a key step towards self-governance.
However, the report also drew considerable criticism, particularly its recommendations regarding the assimilation of French Canadians. This aspect of the report was seen as an attempt to suppress French culture and language, and it remains a controversial aspect of Canadian history.
Despite its controversies, the Lord Durham Report played a crucial role in shaping the political and social landscape of Canada. It served as a catalyst for a new era of political reform and laid the foundation for a more unified and self-governing Canada within the British Empire.