Why did people of British North America want a more democratic government? 

reformer - someone who seeks to change —to reform—established rules and arrangements in society

Who makes decisions for you?  

As a young person, what authority do you have to make your own decisions?

How do you expect this situation to change as you grow up?

Reformers of British North America wanted:

• Britain to treat them like adults

• Authority to make decision that affected their lives

Who Had Power in British North America?

Colonial government - a government established in a colony and controlled by an imperial power such as Britain

advise - to give advice

democracy - a system of government in which citizens elect those who rule them

republic - a system of government that does not have a monarch

Each colony was governed by:

• Appointed people by Britain

  • • • Governor

      • Members of the governing council

• Assembly elected by the colonists

  • co uld only advise governor and council

What the Colonists wanted

• Elected assembly of the colony 

• Council to have full control of decision about local affairs

• NOT the British appointed governors 

Some people even wanted:

• Change in power structure OR establishment of a republic like America

Respond

Read pages 210 and 211.  Respond to the questions as a class and record in space on your handout.

In a few years, you will have the right to vote in Canada.  In a democracy, voting gives you power.

What responsibilities do Canadians have as a members of a democracy?  What responsibilities come with power?

1. To what extent do the concerns of Mill and de Tocqueville apply to Canada, in your opinion?  For example:

   • What groups in Canada might have concerns about the "tyranny of the majority"?

   • How can knowledge of history help Canadians make good decisions today?

2. How can you answer the criticism of democracy expressed in MIll's and de Tocqueville's thinking?  As a class, create a list of responsibilities for voters.

Exit Slip

Why did peoples of British North America want more democratic government?

Next Section:  7.3 The Rebellions of 1837 and 1838