Canada’s rich history is marked by numerous pivotal events that have shaped its political, cultural, and social landscape. Some of these moments took place on September 22, a date that has witnessed significant treaties between the government and Indigenous peoples, influential visits from international figures, and the birth and death of key Canadian political leaders. These events reflect the diversity and complexity of Canadian history, from the country’s colonial past to its modern era. This article will explore what happened on September 22 in Canadian history, covering a range of milestones, each of which has contributed to shaping Canada as we know it today.
What Happened on September 22 in Canadian History?
Treaty 4 Signed at Fort Qu’Appelle (1875)
On September 22, 1875, the signing of Treaty 4 at Fort Qu’Appelle, Saskatchewan, was a landmark event in Canadian history. This treaty was part of a series of numbered treaties that the Canadian government signed with various Indigenous nations throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Treaty 4 specifically involved the Cree, Saulteaux (Chippewa), and other First Nations who inhabited the areas that would later become southern Saskatchewan, parts of Manitoba, and parts of Alberta. The signing of the treaty was meant to facilitate European settlement in the region while providing Indigenous groups with certain rights and compensations in return for ceding large tracts of their land to the Canadian government.
The context of Treaty 4 is crucial to understanding its impact. At the time, Indigenous peoples were facing increasing pressure from European settlers, who sought land for agriculture and development. The Canadian government was keen to expand westward and secure the newly acquired lands of the Northwest Territories, which included present-day Saskatchewan. For Indigenous peoples, the treaty was seen as a way to ensure their survival amid the depletion of natural resources like the buffalo, which had traditionally sustained their economies and way of life.
However, the implementation of Treaty 4, like many other numbered treaties, was fraught with difficulties. Indigenous leaders often entered into the treaties with a different understanding of the agreements compared to the Canadian government, leading to long-term disputes over land rights, education, and healthcare provisions. While Treaty 4 guaranteed certain rights to Indigenous groups, such as the establishment of reserves and financial compensation, many of these promises were either delayed or inadequately fulfilled by the government. The legacy of Treaty 4 continues to be a topic of discussion and debate, particularly in the context of ongoing reconciliation efforts between Canada and Indigenous peoples.
See Also: What Happened on September 22 in History?
Pope John Paul II Visits Fort Simpson (1987)
On September 22, 1987, Pope John Paul II made a historic visit to Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories, a remote community in Canada’s north. The visit was initially scheduled for 1984 as part of the Pope’s broader tour of Canada, but poor weather had forced him to cancel his plans to visit the region. However, the Pope made a promise to the Indigenous peoples of Fort Simpson that he would return, and in 1987, he fulfilled that promise. His visit to Fort Simpson held significant meaning for both the Catholic Church and Indigenous communities, as it marked a moment of spiritual dialogue and healing.
The Pope’s visit was part of his broader mission to engage with Indigenous populations around the world, and his message in Fort Simpson was one of reconciliation and respect for Indigenous cultures. At the time, Indigenous issues were becoming increasingly prominent in Canadian politics, with growing calls for the recognition of Indigenous rights and land claims. The Pope’s presence in Fort Simpson provided a platform for these issues to be addressed on an international stage, and his words resonated with many in attendance.
During the visit, Pope John Paul II celebrated mass and delivered a homily that emphasized the dignity of Indigenous peoples and the importance of their cultural and spiritual traditions. He acknowledged the historical injustices that had been inflicted upon Indigenous populations, particularly in the context of colonization and residential schools, many of which were run by the Catholic Church. The Pope’s visit to Fort Simpson, though brief, was seen as a step toward healing and reconciliation between the Church and Indigenous peoples in Canada. It also underscored the global attention being paid to the struggles of Indigenous communities in the late 20th century, an issue that continues to shape Canadian politics and society today.
Birth of John Diefenbaker (1895)
On September 22, 1895, John George Diefenbaker, Canada’s 13th prime minister, was born in Neustadt, Ontario. Diefenbaker would go on to have a profound impact on Canadian politics, serving as prime minister from 1957 to 1963. He was the first prime minister of Canada of neither French nor English descent, a distinction that set him apart in a country long dominated by leaders from these two cultural groups. Diefenbaker’s legacy is complex, but he is perhaps best remembered for his passionate defense of civil rights and his efforts to unite Canadians across cultural and regional divides.
Diefenbaker was a staunch advocate for the rights of the “average Canadian.” His government passed the Canadian Bill of Rights in 1960, a precursor to the later Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The Bill of Rights was the first federal law to protect Canadians’ fundamental freedoms, such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly. Although the Bill of Rights was not as comprehensive as the later Charter, it represented an important step toward recognizing and protecting civil liberties in Canada.
Diefenbaker was also known for his support of Indigenous rights. His government extended the federal vote to Indigenous Canadians in 1960, allowing them to participate in federal elections without being required to give up their treaty status. This move was a significant step toward the recognition of Indigenous peoples as full citizens of Canada. However, Diefenbaker’s tenure as prime minister was not without its controversies. His handling of economic issues and his decision to cancel the Avro Arrow, a Canadian-developed supersonic jet, remain points of debate. Nonetheless, Diefenbaker’s contributions to civil rights and his vision of a united Canada continue to influence the country’s political landscape.
Death of John Turner (2020)
On September 22, 2020, Canada mourned the passing of John Turner, the 17th prime minister of Canada. Turner, a Liberal politician, served as prime minister for only 79 days in 1984, one of the shortest terms in Canadian history. Despite his brief tenure, Turner had a long and distinguished political career, holding various key cabinet positions throughout the 1960s and 1970s, including Minister of Justice and Minister of Finance.
Turner was widely respected for his intelligence, integrity, and dedication to public service. As Minister of Justice, he introduced landmark legislation, including reforms to the Criminal Code and the Official Languages Act, which strengthened bilingualism in Canada. Turner’s time as Minister of Finance saw him navigate the challenges of a fluctuating economy, and he was known for his pragmatic approach to fiscal policy.
Though his brief time as prime minister was marked by political challenges, including tensions within the Liberal Party and a difficult national election, Turner remained a respected figure in Canadian politics. His legacy as a champion of justice and bilingualism, as well as his long career in public service, continues to be recognized by Canadians.
Conclusion
Throughout Canadian history, September 22 has been a day of significant events, from the signing of critical treaties with Indigenous nations to the births and deaths of prominent political leaders. The events of this date highlight the complexity of Canada’s history, reflecting its colonial past, its evolving relationship with Indigenous peoples, and the contributions of its political figures. As Canadians continue to reflect on their history, these events serve as reminders of the ongoing processes of negotiation, reconciliation, and leadership that have shaped the nation’s identity over time.