Canadian history, like that of many nations, is filled with significant events that have shaped its identity and development over the centuries. September 13 is a day that witnessed important battles, sporting milestones, and cultural contributions. From the decisive Battle of the Plains of Abraham to the formation of rugby unions that laid the foundation for Canadian football, this date has seen pivotal moments in the nation’s past. In this article, we explore some of the key events that occurred on September 13 throughout Canadian history.
What Happened on September 13 in Canadian History?
Battle of the Plains of Abraham (1759)
On September 13, 1759, one of the most decisive battles in Canadian history took place: the Battle of the Plains of Abraham. This battle, fought between British and French forces near Quebec City, was part of the larger conflict known as the Seven Years’ War. The British, under the command of General James Wolfe, engaged French forces led by General Louis-Joseph de Montcalm. The battle lasted less than an hour but had far-reaching consequences for the future of Canada.
Both Wolfe and Montcalm were mortally wounded in the fighting, with Wolfe dying shortly after the British victory and Montcalm succumbing to his injuries the next day. The outcome of this battle marked a turning point in the war, leading to the British capture of Quebec and ultimately the end of French colonial rule in Canada. The British victory at the Plains of Abraham paved the way for the dominance of British influence in North America, which would shape the future of Canada as part of the British Empire.
See Also: What Happened on September 13 in History?
Formation of the Canadian Interprovincial Rugby Football Union (1907)
On September 13, 1907, the Canadian Interprovincial Rugby Football Union (IRFU) was formed, marking a significant development in the history of Canadian football. The IRFU was created by the merging of several regional rugby teams, including the Hamilton Tigers, Toronto Argonauts, Ottawa Rough Riders, and Montreal Football Club. This union was a crucial step toward formalizing and organizing rugby football in Canada, and it laid the groundwork for what would later become the Canadian Football League (CFL).
The formation of the IRFU allowed for the development of a more structured and competitive league, with teams from different provinces competing against one another. This helped to popularize the sport and establish it as a national pastime. The IRFU’s creation marked the beginning of modern Canadian football, and many of the teams that were part of the original union, such as the Toronto Argonauts and Ottawa Rough Riders, remain iconic franchises in Canadian sports history.
Farm Aid Concert (2014)
Although not a Canadian event, the September 13, 2014, Farm Aid concert held in Raleigh, North Carolina, had notable Canadian participation and support. Farm Aid is an annual concert event organized to raise awareness and funds for family farmers in the United States and Canada. The 2014 edition featured performances by several prominent artists, including Canadian musicians Neil Young and Willie Nelson. Young, a staunch advocate for sustainable farming, has been involved in Farm Aid since its inception in 1985.
Farm Aid has long been a platform for raising awareness about the struggles faced by farmers in North America. The 2014 concert was no exception, as it highlighted issues related to corporate farming practices, climate change, and the importance of supporting local farmers. Neil Young’s involvement, alongside other Canadian artists and performers, reinforced the concert’s significance as a cross-border effort to promote agricultural sustainability and food security.
Birth of Laura Secord (1775)
September 13 marks the birth of one of Canada’s most celebrated heroines, Laura Secord, who was born in 1775 in Great Barrington, Massachusetts Bay. Secord is best known for her courageous actions during the War of 1812, when she made a perilous journey through enemy territory to warn British forces of an impending American attack. Her efforts helped secure a British victory at the Battle of Beaver Dams, and she has since become a symbol of bravery and patriotism in Canadian history.
Although Secord’s contributions were not widely recognized during her lifetime, her legacy has grown over the years, and she is now remembered as one of Canada’s most important historical figures. Her story has been commemorated in various ways, including through monuments, schools, and even a popular Canadian chocolate company that bears her name. Laura Secord’s actions on that fateful day in 1813 continue to inspire generations of Canadians.
Birth of Chris Morris (1968)
On September 13, 1968, Canadian football player Chris Morris was born in Scarborough, Ontario. Morris would go on to have a successful career in the Canadian Football League (CFL), playing as an offensive tackle for the Edmonton Eskimos (now known as the Edmonton Elks). Over the course of his career, Morris became known for his strength, agility, and leadership on the field, helping the Eskimos win multiple Grey Cup championships.
Morris’s contributions to Canadian football extend beyond his playing career, as he later transitioned into coaching. He became the head coach of the University of Alberta Golden Bears football team, where he worked to develop young talent and foster the next generation of Canadian football players. Morris’s impact on the sport has been significant, and he remains a respected figure in Canadian athletics.
Birth of José Théodore (1976)
On September 13, 1976, José Théodore, a Canadian ice hockey player, was born in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, Quebec. Théodore enjoyed a stellar career in the National Hockey League (NHL), playing as a goaltender for several teams, including the Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche, and Washington Capitals. Known for his quick reflexes and strong puck-handling skills, Théodore was one of the top goaltenders of his era.
In 2002, Théodore was awarded the Hart Trophy as the NHL’s most valuable player (MVP) and the Vezina Trophy as the league’s best goaltender. His performance that season was instrumental in leading the Montreal Canadiens to the playoffs, and he quickly became a fan favorite. Théodore’s career left a lasting impact on Canadian ice hockey, and he remains a celebrated figure in the sport’s history.
Birth of Angel Williams (1981)
On September 13, 1981, Angel Williams, a Canadian professional wrestler, was born in Toronto, Ontario. Williams, better known by her ring name “Angelina Love,” became a prominent figure in the world of professional wrestling, particularly in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA). As one of the top female wrestlers in the promotion, Williams gained a reputation for her athleticism, charisma, and in-ring ability.
Angelina Love’s success in TNA helped pave the way for the rise of women’s wrestling in Canada and North America more broadly. She became a six-time TNA Knockouts Champion, establishing herself as one of the most decorated women in the company’s history. Williams’ contributions to professional wrestling have had a lasting impact on the sport, and she continues to inspire female wrestlers around the world.
Lorne Michaels Marries Susan Forristal (1981)
On September 13, 1981, legendary Canadian television producer Lorne Michaels married model Susan Forristal. Michaels, best known as the creator and executive producer of Saturday Night Live (SNL), is one of the most influential figures in American television. Born in Toronto, Michaels moved to the United States, where he revolutionized late-night television with the creation of SNL in 1975.
Michaels’ marriage to Forristal marked a personal milestone in the life of a man whose professional achievements have shaped the landscape of comedy and entertainment. Under Michaels’ guidance, SNL became a launching pad for some of the biggest names in comedy, including Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey, and Will Ferrell. His impact on television extends beyond SNL, as he has produced numerous other successful shows and films. Despite his success in the U.S., Michaels has never forgotten his Canadian roots, often referencing his upbringing in interviews.
Conclusion
September 13 is a date that holds special significance in Canadian history, from the pivotal military victory at the Battle of the Plains of Abraham to the formation of important sports unions and the birth of iconic Canadians in sports, entertainment, and more. Each of these events, whether in war, sports, or culture, reflects Canada’s diverse and rich heritage. As we reflect on these moments, we see how Canada’s history is shaped by resilience, innovation, and the contributions of its people. Through victories in battle, achievements in sport, and contributions to global entertainment, Canada’s legacy continues to be written, one day at a time.