Debate on the monarchy in Canada

Debate between monarchists and republicans in Canada has been taking place since before the country's Confederation in 1867, though it has rarely been of significance since the rebellions of 1837.[1] Open support for republicanism only came from the Patriotes in the early 19th century, the Red River Métis in 1869, and minor actions by the Fenians in the 19th century. However, paralleling the changes in constitutional law that saw the creation of a distinct Canadian monarchy, the emergence in the 1960s of Quebec nationalism, and the evolution of Canadian nationalism, the cultural role and relevance of the monarchy was altered and was sometimes questioned in certain circles, while continuing to receive support in others.

In 2005, it was estimated that only 0.6 per cent of the population was actively engaged in any debate about a republic.[2] The Monarchist League of Canada's chief executive officer, Robert Finch, stated the greatest threat to the monarchy is not republicanism, "it is indifference."[3]

  1. ^ Smith, David, Watson, William (ed.), "Republican Tendencies" (PDF), Policy Options: Bye-Bye for Good? (May 1999), Montreal: Institute for Research on Public Policy: 8, archived from the original (PDF) on 17 February 2012, retrieved 10 February 2009
  2. ^ Hanon, Andrew (20 May 2005). "Monarchists, republicans square off". Edmonton Sun. Retrieved 17 February 2009.[dead link]
  3. ^ "One in five Canadians think the Queen should stay home: Poll". canoe.ca. 28 June 2010. Archived from the original on 15 January 2013. Retrieved 29 June 2010.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: unfit URL (link)