William Lyon Mackenzie (1795–1861) was a Scottish-born Canadian journalist, politician, and reformer known for advocating democratic principles and responsible government. He led an unsuccessful 1837 revolt and was the grandfather of William Lyon Mackenzie King, Canada’s longest-serving prime minister.
Born in Dundee, Scotland, he emigrated to Canada (1820,) working as a merchant before founding Colonial Advocate (1824) in Queenston to challenge the ruling oligarchy. After relocating to York, his office was sabotaged, but compensation allowed him to expand operations and lead the radical wing. Elected to the provincial Parliament for York (1828,) he was repeatedly expelled by the Tory majority yet consistently reinstated by voters.
His 1832 visit to England strengthened his influence, leading to Canadian administrative changes and his book Sketches of Canada and the United States (1832,) documenting local grievances. Returning to Canada, he was elected Toronto’s mayor (1835.)
Frustrated by slow reforms, Mackenzie led the Upper Canada Rebellion (1837,) but failure forced him into U.S. exile, where he continued advocating Canadian independence. Arrested for violating neutrality laws, he penned The Caroline Almanack (1838,) reflecting disillusionment with U.S. politics, but was pardoned by President Martin Van Buren. Returning to Canada (1849,) he resumed politics, serving in the Legislative Assembly until 1858.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by William Lyon Mackenzie
The promises of yesterday are the taxes of today.
—William Lyon Mackenzie
Topics: Promises
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