Separatism in Nova Scotia
In 1867, many Nova Scotians were thinking of separating from Canada. Their province had just become one of the four original members of Confederation. In each province there were people who were unhappy about the decision. But only in Nova Scotia did it seem that anti-Confederation feelings might lead to a separation movement.
On Sept. 18th, 1867, Nova Scotians had a unique chance to express themselves on the subject of Confederation. That was the date of the first election in Nova Scotia for the new Canadian House of Commons. It was also the date chosen by Premier Charles Tupper for a provincial election.
The double election campaign was bitterly fought between pro-Confederates and anti-Confederates. The latter were led by Joseph Howe, William Annand and other influential politicians. If they won, the anti-Confederates might try to take Nova Scotia out of Confederation.
The election results surprises even the most hopeful anti-Confederates:
Anti-Confederates / ConfederatesProvincial Election / 36 / 2
Federal Election / 18 / 1
Nova Scotians had spoken loud and clear. Denied the chance before Confederation had united them with Canada, they showed their dissatisfaction immediately after the event. At the very least, they were unhappy with the terms of union. What step would they take next?
Joseph Howe was on the spot. Many anti-Confederates had expected that their election victory would mean some action against the union with Canada. Yet Great Britain clearly favoured Confederation. And Joseph Howe was famous for his loyalty to Britain. What choices, if any, did Mr. Howe have?
He went to London. He investigated the possibility that Nova Scotia might be separated from Canada. To the surprise of probably no one, he found the British solidly in favour of Confederation. Unless some surprising anti-British movement developed, the future of Nova Scotia lay with Canada.
Seeing no other choice, Joseph Howe decided his best move was to try improving the terms of Nova Scotia’s union with Canada. His chance came when the Canadian prime minister, Sir John A. MacDonald, invited Howe to become a member of the Canadian Cabinet. Howe agreed, in exchange for larger yearly payments from Canada to Nova Scotia.
1. Why did Nova Scotians have a “unique chance” to make known their feelings about Confederation?
2. In what ways was Joseph Howe “on the spot” following the September 1867 elections in Nova Scotia?
3. Do you agree with Joseph Howe’s decision to become a member of the Canadian government? Why of why not?