Louis Riel and the creation of modern Canada : mythic discourse and the postcolonial state

Since he was tried and hanged for treason in November of 1885, Louis Riel has been the subject of more histories, biographies, novels, and poetry than any other figure in Canadian history. Politician, founder of Manitoba, and leader of the aboriginal Métis people, Riel led two resistance movements against the Canadian government: the Red River Uprising of 1869-70, and the North-West Rebellion of 1885, in defense of Métis and other minority rights. Against the backdrop of these legendary uprisings, Jennifer Reid examines Riel\u27s religious background, the mythic significance that has consciously been ascribed to him, and how these elements combined to influence Canada\u27s search for a national identity. Reid\u27s study provides a framework for rethinking the geopolitical significance of the modern Canadian state, the historic role of Confederation in establishing the country\u27s collective self-image, and the narrative space through which Riel\u27s voice speaks to these issues.https://scholarworks.umf.maine.edu/publications/1057/thumbnail.jp