Famous Canadian Leaders

Thomas Clement Douglas was a Scottish-born Canadian politician who served as the seventh premier of Saskatchewan and Leader of the New Democratic Party. He was a Baptist minister who entered federal politics in 1935 as a member of the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (CCF). Douglas left federal politics to become Premier of Saskatchewan, where his government introduced the continent's first single-payer, universal health care program. He later became the first federal leader of the NDP and was a key figure in opposing the War Measures Act during the 1970 October Crisis.

Sir John A. Macdonald was the first prime minister of Canada, serving for a total of 19 years. He played a crucial role in Canadian Confederation, guiding the country through its early years and expansion. Macdonald was known for establishing the North-West Mounted Police, expanding Canada's territory, and completing the Canadian Pacific Railway. He utilized patronage to build a strong Conservative Party and implemented the protective tariff National Policy. Despite facing criticism for certain policies towards Indigenous peoples, he is widely respected for his contributions to Canada's formation.

Lester B. Pearson was a prominent Canadian politician, diplomat, and scholar known for his significant contributions to Canadian and international affairs. He served as the 14th Prime Minister of Canada from 1963 to 1968 and held key positions in the Department of External Affairs. Pearson's achievements include winning the Nobel Peace Prize in 1957 for his role in resolving the Suez Canal Crisis, implementing progressive policies such as universal healthcare and the Canada Pension Plan, and introducing initiatives like the Order of Canada and the Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism. His legacy also includes keeping Canada out of the Vietnam War and implementing a points-based immigration system, making him one of the most influential Canadian leaders of the 20th century.

Charles Joseph Clark is a Canadian businessman, writer, and politician. He served as the 16th prime minister of Canada from 1979 to 1980. Clark entered federal politics in 1972, swiftly rising to win the leadership of the Progressive Conservative Party in 1976. His tenure as Prime Minister was brief, marked by a minority government and a budget defeat triggering an election in 1980. Clark later served in various ministerial roles under Brian Mulroney before retiring from politics and making a brief comeback in the late 1990s.

Seth Bullock was a multi-faceted figure in the American West, excelling in various roles throughout his professional life. Known for his ventures as a frontiersman, business owner, politician, sheriff, and U.S. Marshal, he left a lasting impact on Deadwood, South Dakota. Bullock was a prominent citizen in the region, operating a hardware store and later establishing the renowned Bullock Hotel. His diverse career and contributions to law enforcement and business made him a respected and influential figure in the community until his passing.

Joe Weider was a prominent figure in the world of bodybuilding and fitness. He co-founded the IFBB and created prestigious bodybuilding contests such as Mr. Olympia, Ms. Olympia, and the Masters Olympia. Weider also published popular magazines like Muscle & Fitness, Flex, Men's Fitness, and Shape, and manufactured fitness equipment and supplements. His contributions to the industry were recognized with an induction into the International Sports Hall of Fame in 2014.

Paul Hellyer was a distinguished Canadian figure known for his multifaceted career. As an engineer, he showcased his technical expertise, while his political involvement allowed him to serve as a Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister. Hellyer's contributions extended to writing and commentary, highlighting his intellectual pursuits. Notably, he held the distinction of being the longest-serving member of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada, showcasing his dedication to public service and governance throughout his professional life.

Jean Chrétien is a Canadian lawyer and politician who served as the 20th prime minister of Canada from 1993 to 2003. He held various cabinet posts under Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, including minister of Indian affairs, president of the Treasury Board, minister of finance, and minister of justice. After becoming leader of the Liberal Party in 1990, he led the party to three consecutive majority governments. His tenure saw the implementation of significant policies in areas such as gun control, criminal justice, environmental protection, and foreign intervention.

Stephen Harper is a Canadian politician who served as the 22nd prime minister of Canada from 2006 to 2015. He is the first and only prime minister to come from the modern-day Conservative Party of Canada. Harper studied economics, founded the Reform Party of Canada, and later led the National Citizens Coalition. He became leader of the Canadian Alliance, which merged with the Progressive Conservative Party to form the Conservative Party of Canada. During his time in office, Harper implemented various policy changes and faced several controversies before stepping down in 2015.

Wilfrid Laurier was a Canadian lawyer, statesman, and politician who served as the seventh prime minister of Canada from 1896 to 1911, making him the first French Canadian prime minister. Known for his compromises between English and French Canada, Laurier studied law, served in various government positions, and became leader of the Liberal Party in 1887. During his tenure, he addressed key issues such as the Manitoba Schools Question, the Boer War, Canadian military support, and naval development, while also focusing on immigration and expanding Canada's infrastructure.

Michaëlle Jean is a prominent Canadian figure known for her diverse professional roles. She began her career as a journalist and broadcaster for Radio-Canada and CBC, focusing on domestic violence advocacy. In 2005, she made history by becoming Canada's first Haitian Canadian and black governor general. Later, she served as the first female Secretary-General of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Her dedication to various causes, including supporting the Canadian Forces, Aboriginal Canadians, and youth involvement in the arts, has earned her respect and recognition on both national and international levels.

Brian Mulroney was a Canadian lawyer, businessman, and politician who served as the 18th prime minister of Canada from 1984 to 1993. He gained prominence as a labour lawyer before becoming president of the Iron Ore Company of Canada. Mulroney led the Progressive Conservative Party to electoral success in 1984 and 1988. As prime minister, he implemented major economic reforms including the Canada–United States Free Trade Agreement and the goods and services tax. He also focused on environmental protection and played a role in international diplomacy.

Kim Campbell is a former Canadian politician, diplomat, lawyer, and writer. She served as the 19th prime minister of Canada, making her the first and only female to hold this position. Prior to her role as prime minister, Campbell was the first woman to serve as minister of justice in Canadian history and the first woman to become minister of defence in a NATO member state. She held various cabinet positions under Prime Minister Brian Mulroney and was elected to both the British Columbia Legislative Assembly and the House of Commons of Canada.

Pierre Poilievre is a Canadian politician and current leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition. He has been a Member of Parliament since 2004, representing various ridings. Throughout his career, Poilievre has held several key positions, including serving as Minister for Democratic Reform and Minister of Employment and Social Development under Prime Minister Stephen Harper. He has also been the Shadow Minister for Finance and briefly for Jobs and Industry. Poilievre won the Conservative Party leadership in 2022.

Pierre Trudeau was a Canadian lawyer and politician who served as the 15th prime minister of Canada, known for his charismatic personality and impactful policy decisions. He rose to prominence as a labour activist in Quebec politics, later joining the Liberal Party and winning multiple elections. Trudeau is known for creating more flexible divorce laws, decriminalizing homosexuality, legalizing abortion, and pioneering official bilingualism and multiculturalism. He established the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, enhancing Canadian sovereignty and fostering a pan-Canadian identity.

Christy Clark is a former Canadian politician who served as the 35th premier of British Columbia from 2011 to 2017. A member of the British Columbia Liberal Party, she was previously a member of the Legislative Assembly from 1996 to 2005 and deputy premier from 2001 to 2005. After leaving politics, she briefly worked as a radio talk show host before returning to lead the Liberal Party and becoming premier. Clark resigned as leader following a defeat in the 2017 provincial election.

John Turner was a Canadian lawyer and politician who served as the 17th prime minister of Canada. He began his career as a lawyer before entering politics in 1962. Turner held various cabinet positions under Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, including minister of justice and attorney general, and minister of finance. After a brief hiatus as a corporate lawyer, Turner returned to politics and became Liberal Party leader. He served as prime minister for a short period before leading the Opposition for six years. Turner retired from politics in 1993.

Paul Martin Jr. is a Canadian lawyer and politician who served as the 21st prime minister of Canada and the leader of the Liberal Party of Canada. He was the president and CEO of Canada Steamship Lines before entering politics. As finance minister, he played a key role in eliminating Canada's fiscal deficit through spending cuts and program reforms. Martin later became prime minister, overseeing initiatives such as the Kelowna Accord and legalizing same-sex marriage. After losing power in 2006, he stepped down as Liberal leader and focused on international initiatives.

John Gilbert Layton was a Canadian academic and politician who served as the leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP) from 2003 to 2011 and leader of the Official Opposition in 2011. He was a prominent figure in Toronto municipal politics and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. Under his leadership, the NDP saw significant electoral gains, with Layton leading the party to its most successful result in history in the 2011 election. Layton passed away in 2011 after being diagnosed with cancer.

Agnes Campbell Macphail was a trailblazing Canadian politician who made history as the first woman elected to Canada's House of Commons. She served as a Member of Parliament for multiple terms and later as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario. Throughout her career, Macphail was actively involved in progressive politics, working with various parties including the Progressive Party and the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation. She advocated for her beliefs through writing columns, organizing activism, and championing legislation.

René Lévesque was a prominent Canadian politician and journalist who served as the 23rd premier of Quebec from 1976 to 1985. He started his career as a reporter, radio, and television host before transitioning into politics. Lévesque was known for his pivotal role in the nationalization of hydro-electric companies in Quebec and for his strong advocacy for Quebec sovereignty. He founded the Parti Québécois and was the first Québécois political leader to seek independence for Quebec through a referendum.

Peter Gordon MacKay is a Canadian lawyer and politician who served as a Member of Parliament and held key ministerial positions in the Cabinet of Canada. He was the final leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada and co-founded the Conservative Party of Canada. MacKay has also worked as a partner at Baker McKenzie and currently serves as a senior counsel at the law firm McInnes Cooper and a strategic advisor at Deloitte Canada. He ran for the Conservative leadership in 2020 but was defeated.

General Sir Arthur Currie was a distinguished Canadian military officer who rose through the ranks from a pre-war militia gunner to become the first Canadian commander of the Canadian Corps during World War I. Known for his adeptness in adapting brigade tactics to trench warfare, he is considered one of the most skilled commanders of the Western Front. Currie held various leadership positions, including artillery regimental commander and commander of the Canadian Corps, and later served as Inspector General of the Canadian Army.

Rona Ambrose is a former Canadian politician who served as interim leader of the Conservative Party and the leader of the Opposition between 2015 and 2017. Throughout her career, she held various cabinet positions including Minister of Health, Minister of the Environment, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, and more. She also worked as a communication consultant and public policy consultant for the Alberta government. After retiring from federal politics, she became a visiting fellow at the Canada Institute and was appointed to a NAFTA advisory council in 2017.

Nellie Letitia McClung was a Canadian author, politician, and social activist known for her significant contributions to the women's suffrage movement. She authored sixteen books, including two autobiographies, and played a pivotal role in securing the right to vote for women in Alberta and Manitoba in 1916. As a member of the Famous Five, she fought for women's rights in the Persons Case, ultimately leading to women's eligibility for the Senate. McClung's career also included roles in government, broadcasting, and international diplomacy.

William Lyon Mackenzie King was a Canadian statesman and politician who served as the tenth prime minister of Canada for three non-consecutive terms from 1921 to 1926, 1926 to 1930, and 1935 to 1948. He was known for his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II, laying the foundations of the Canadian welfare state and establishing Canada's international reputation. King's tenure saw the introduction of various social welfare programs, negotiation of key trade agreements, and a focus on Canadian autonomy and foreign policy.

Stephen Henry Lewis is a Canadian politician, public speaker, broadcaster, and diplomat. He was the leader of the Ontario New Democratic Party in the 1970s. He later served as Canada's United Nations ambassador in the mid-1980s. After quitting this role, he worked at various United Nations agencies during the 1990s. In the 2000s, he was the United Nations' special envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa. He was invested in the Order of Canada in 2003 and served as a distinguished visiting professor at Toronto Metropolitan University in 2014.

Stéphane Dion is a Canadian diplomat, academic, and former politician. He has held various key positions in the Canadian government, including Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Minister of Environment, and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Dion is known for his work on Canadian federalism and public administration, as well as his advocacy for environmental issues, including implementing the Kyoto Protocol. He also served as Leader of the Opposition and leader of the Liberal Party, before transitioning to his current roles as Canadian ambassador to France and Monaco, and special envoy to the European Union.

Gerald Butts is a Canadian political consultant known for his role as Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. He previously served as president and CEO of the World Wildlife Fund Canada. Butts was recognized as one of the most powerful Canadians by Maclean's magazine. He played a key role in shaping the Liberal Party of Canada's platform for the 2015 election, contributing to their victory. Butts was a senior figure in the Office of the Prime Minister, working alongside other key staffers.

John Howard Tory is a Canadian broadcaster, businessman, and former politician. He served as the 65th mayor of Toronto from 2014 to 2023. Tory was also the leader of the Official Opposition in Ontario and the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario. He had a diverse career as a lawyer, political strategist, and businessman before entering politics. Tory later became a radio talk show host and volunteer chair of a non-profit group. His tenure as mayor included successful re-elections and eventual resignation due to a personal scandal.

Jean Charest is a Canadian lawyer and former politician who served as the 29th premier of Quebec from 2003 to 2012. He was a member of Parliament from 1984 to 1998 and held various Cabinet positions. Charest was the leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada from 1993 to 1998. After leaving federal politics, he became the leader of the Quebec Liberal Party, leading the province as premier until 2012. Charest later worked as a consultant and joined McCarthy Tétrault LLP as a partner.

Jason Kenney is a former Canadian politician who served as the 18th premier of Alberta from 2019 until 2022. He was the leader of the United Conservative Party (UCP) from 2017 until 2022 and held various cabinet posts under Prime Minister Stephen Harper from 2006 to 2015. Kenney was a member of the Legislative Assembly for Calgary-Lougheed and played a key role in merging the Alberta Progressive Conservative Party with the Wildrose Party to form the UCP.

David Johnston is a distinguished Canadian academic, author, and politician. He notably served as the governor-general of Canada from 2010 to 2017, making significant contributions during his tenure. With an educational background from Trinity Hall, Cambridge, and Queen's University, he pursued a successful academic career. Additionally, he actively engaged in politics and public service, showcasing his commitment to serving the community. Johnston's dedication to public life was further recognized with the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.

Pierre Laporte was a prominent figure in Canadian politics, serving as a lawyer, journalist, and politician. He held the position of deputy premier in Quebec, where he played a significant role in shaping policies and decisions for the province. Laporte's career was marked by his dedication to public service and his commitment to his constituents. Tragically, his life was cut short when he was kidnapped and murdered by members of the FLQ during the October Crisis, leaving a lasting impact on Canadian history.

Robert Bourassa was a Canadian lawyer and politician who served as the 22nd premier of Quebec for a total of just under 15 years. As a member of the Liberal Party of Quebec, he held the position from 1970 to 1976 and then again from 1985 to 1994. Bourassa's professional life was characterized by significant events such as the October Crisis and his involvement in negotiating the Meech Lake and Charlottetown Accords, all of which had a lasting impact on Quebec.

Stockwell Burt Day Jr. PC ECA is a former Canadian politician who served as leader of the Canadian Alliance from 2000 to 2001 and later as a member of the Conservative Party of Canada. He held various cabinet positions in Alberta before becoming the leader of the Canadian Alliance. Despite only modest gains during his tenure, he continued to serve as an MP and held cabinet portfolios under Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Known for advocating social conservative views, Day did not seek re-election in the 2011 federal election.

Jeanne Mathilde Sauvé was a prominent Canadian politician and journalist. She made history as the first female Speaker of the House and the first female Governor General of Canada. Starting her career as a journalist at CBC, she later entered politics and served as a minister of the Crown before becoming Speaker. Her appointment as Governor General was a significant milestone, although it stirred some controversy. Sauvé was also involved in philanthropic work through the Sauvé Foundation. She left a lasting legacy, with the Jeanne Sauvé Memorial Cup named in her honor.

Jim Prentice was a Canadian politician who served as the 16th premier of Alberta from 2014 to 2015. He was elected to the House of Commons of Canada in 2004 and held various cabinet positions, including Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, Minister of Industry, and Minister of Environment. After retiring from federal politics, Prentice entered provincial politics in Alberta and won the leadership of the Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta. He served as Premier of Alberta until his party's defeat in the 2015 election. Tragically, Prentice passed away in a plane crash in 2016.

Ralph Klein was a Canadian politician and journalist known for his leadership as the 12th premier of Alberta and the 32nd mayor of Calgary. After a career in education and public relations, Klein transitioned to journalism, where he highlighted the challenges faced by marginalized groups. He entered politics as an underdog, becoming Mayor of Calgary and later serving as Environment Minister in the provincial Cabinet. Elected as leader of the Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta, Klein led the party to multiple majority governments, implementing fiscal strategies that stabilized the economy.

Dalton McGuinty Jr. is a former Canadian politician who served as the 24th premier of Ontario from 2003 to 2013. He was the first Liberal leader to win two majority governments since Mitchell Hepburn nearly 70 years earlier. McGuinty studied science at university, later obtaining a law degree and practicing law in Ottawa. He entered politics after his father's death, winning his father's seat in a by-election. McGuinty was elected as the Liberal leader in 1996 and served as premier until 2013, when he resigned and became a senior fellow at Harvard University.

Charles Vincent Massey was a Canadian diplomat and statesman who served as the Governor General of Canada, becoming the first Canadian-born to hold the position. He had a distinguished career that included military service during WWI, diplomatic roles in the US and UK, and chairing a royal commission on the arts. Massey's legacy includes the establishment of the National Library of Canada and the Canada Council of the Arts. He also founded Massey College and the Massey Lectures.

William Lyon Mackenzie was a Scottish Canadian-American journalist and politician known for founding newspapers critical of the elite Family Compact in Upper Canada. He represented York County in the Legislative Assembly, aligned with Reformers, and led rebels in the Upper Canada Rebellion. Mackenzie later sought American support for an invasion of Upper Canada during the Patriot War. Despite his popularity for criticizing officials, he struggled to implement policy objectives. Granted amnesty in 1849, he served in the Province of Canada's legislature until his death.

Sir Robert Borden was a Canadian lawyer and politician who served as the eighth prime minister of Canada from 1911 to 1920. He began his career as a schoolteacher before pursuing law and becoming a prominent barrister. Borden entered politics as a member of the Conservative Party, eventually becoming its leader. His leadership during World War I was marked by significant interventions, including creating the Canadian Expeditionary Force, passing the War Measures Act, and implementing measures to fund the war effort. Borden also made notable contributions to Canadian autonomy and domestic policies.

Jagmeet Singh is a Canadian politician and leader of the New Democratic Party since 2017. He has served as the Member of Parliament for Burnaby South since 2019. Singh began his political career by winning a seat in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario in 2011. He later became the deputy leader of the Ontario NDP before being elected as the federal NDP leader in 2017. Singh is known for his progressive and social democratic views, advocating for policies such as raising the minimum wage and decriminalizing personal drug possession.

Philippe Couillard is a Canadian business advisor and former neurosurgeon, university professor, and politician. He served as the 31st premier of Quebec from 2014 to 2018. Prior to this role, he was Quebec's Minister of Health and Social Services between 2003 and 2008 in Jean Charest's Liberal government. Couillard was also the Member of the National Assembly for Mont-Royal until his resignation in 2008. He later relocated to the riding of Roberval, where he resided, and led the Quebec Liberal Party from 2013 to 2018 before resigning from these positions in October 2018.

Michael Chong is a Canadian politician representing Ontario's Wellington—Halton Hills since 2004. A member of the Conservative Party, he held various roles in Prime Minister Stephen Harper's cabinet, including Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of Sport. Chong also served as the President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada. In 2020, he was appointed as the Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs. Prior to his political career, Chong worked in the financial sector on Bay Street. He ran for the Conservative Party leadership in 2017, finishing fifth out of fourteen candidates.

John Joseph Caldwell Abbott was a Canadian lawyer and politician who served as the third prime minister of Canada from 1891 to 1892. He was a prominent lawyer in Montreal known for his successful defense work. Abbott also taught law at McGill University and was involved in politics from a young age. He was known for advocating for the rights of English-speaking Quebecers and was a member of the Conservative Party. Abbott's career culminated in his appointment as prime minister in 1891.

Tony Peter Clement is a Canadian former federal politician who served as a Member of Parliament for Parry Sound-Muskoka in Ontario. He began his political career as an Ontario cabinet minister, holding the position of Minister of Health and Long-Term Care. Transitioning to federal politics, he ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party of Canada in 2003, later winning the seat of Parry Sound-Muskoka in the 2006 federal election. Throughout his career, he held various ministerial positions and made a bid for the Conservative Party leadership in 2016.

Georges-Philias Vanier was a distinguished Canadian military officer, diplomat, and statesman. He served in the Canadian army during World War I, earning commendations for his bravery despite losing a leg in battle. Vanier later held diplomatic posts in Europe and returned to military service during World War II. Appointed governor general of Canada in 1959, he earned respect for his wartime service but faced hostility from Quebec separatists due to his Quebec heritage. Vanier served in this role until his passing in 1967.

Louis-Joseph Papineau was a prominent politician and lawyer from Montreal, Quebec. He played a key role in the reformist Patriote movement and was a vocal advocate for democratic rights and representation in Lower Canada. Papineau emerged as a leader in the political landscape and became known for his passionate speeches and writings. His involvement in the Lower Canada Rebellion of 1837–1838 solidified his reputation as a key figure in Canadian history. Papineau's contributions left a lasting impact on Quebec's political and social development.

Adrienne Clarkson is a Hong Kong-born Canadian journalist and stateswoman who served as the Governor General of Canada from 1999 to 2005. With a background in journalism and broadcasting, she worked for the CBC before entering diplomacy in the 1980s. Clarkson was appointed Governor General by Queen Elizabeth II in 1999. During her time in office, she faced some controversy over office expenses and her approach to the role. After her term, she continued her contributions to Canadian society through various initiatives and roles.

Mike Harris is a retired Canadian politician who served as the 22nd premier of Ontario from 1995 to 2002 and leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario from 1990 to 2002. Under his leadership, the party shifted towards Blue Toryism and implemented the "Common Sense Revolution" program, focused on deficit reduction through lower taxes and budget cuts. Harris began his political career as a school board trustee before being elected as a Member of Provincial Parliament in 1981. He led the PCs to majority governments in 1995 and 1999.

Sheila Maureen Copps is a former Canadian politician known for her prominent role in the Liberal Party of Canada. Serving as the sixth deputy prime minister of Canada, she advocated for women's legal rights, marijuana legalization, minority rights, and environmental protection. Copps was recognized for her combative style and flamboyant reputation, which became trademarks of her political career. Her dedication to progressive causes and strong presence in Canadian politics solidified her as a notable figure in the country's political landscape.

Peter Lougheed was a Canadian lawyer and Progressive Conservative politician who served as the tenth premier of Alberta from 1971 to 1985. He led the Progressive Conservative Party back into the legislature in 1967 as the leader of the Official Opposition, before being elected as Premier in 1971. During his tenure, Lougheed focused on furthering the development of the oil and gas resources, introduced the Alberta Bill of Rights, and played a key role in negotiating energy revenue sharing with the federal government.

Lucien Bouchard is a French Canadian lawyer, diplomat, and retired politician who served as a minister in the Mulroney cabinet before founding and leading the Bloc Québécois. He also held the position of Leader of the Opposition in the House of Commons of Canada. Bouchard played a central role in the 1995 Quebec referendum campaign and subsequently became the premier of Quebec from 1996 to 2001. His career is marked by his advocacy for Quebec sovereignty and his leadership in provincial and federal politics.

Thomas Mulcair is a retired Canadian politician who served as the leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP) from 2012 to 2017 and leader of the Official Opposition from 2012 to 2015. Prior to his federal political career, he was a senior civil servant in the Quebec provincial government, ran a private law practice, and taught law at the university level. Mulcair was elected as an MP in 2007 and held various positions within the NDP, eventually becoming the party's leader and leading them to the centre during his tenure. He retired from politics in 2018 to take up academic and media roles.

Maurice Duplessis, QC, was a Canadian lawyer and politician who served as the 16th premier of Quebec. As the leader of the Union Nationale party, he dominated provincial politics from the 1930s to the 1950s. Duplessis implemented pro-business policies, maintained the traditional role of the Catholic Church in Quebec society, and cracked down on trade unions and perceived enemies of the Church. His legacy remains controversial due to allegations of corruption, mistreatment of Duplessis Orphans, and his authoritarian inclinations.

Carolyn Ann Bennett is a Canadian ambassador and retired politician. A member of the Liberal Party, she represented Toronto—St. Paul's in the House of Commons from 1997 to 2024. She served as a cabinet minister in the governments of Paul Martin and Justin Trudeau, holding various portfolios such as Minister of State for Public Health, Minister of Crown–Indigenous Relations, and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. Prior to politics, Bennett worked as a family physician for 20 years before becoming the Ambassador of Canada to the Kingdom of Denmark in 2024.

George Brown was a British-Canadian journalist, politician, and one of the Fathers of Confederation. He attended the Charlottetown and Quebec conferences, demonstrating his commitment to national unity. As the founder and editor of the Toronto Globe, a highly influential newspaper in Canada, he played a key role in shaping public opinion. Brown's leadership in the founding of the Liberal Party in 1867 further solidified his place in Canadian politics. Despite facing challenges in his political career, he remained a vocal advocate for the Liberal Party's principles and policies.

Robert Lorne Stanfield was a Canadian politician who served as the 17th premier of Nova Scotia from 1956 to 1967 and the leader of the Official Opposition and leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada from 1967 to 1976. He led the Nova Scotia Progressive Conservative Party to a majority government in 1956, establishing Industrial Estates Limited (IEL), hospital insurance, a provincial sales tax (PST), and increased funding for education. As leader of the federal Progressive Conservative Party, he faced electoral defeats but remained a strong advocate for bilingualism and key political accords.

Richard Bedford Bennett was a prominent Canadian lawyer, businessman, philanthropist, and politician. He built a successful law practice in Calgary, becoming one of the wealthiest Canadians of his time through various investments and leadership roles. Bennett served in the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories and the Alberta Legislature before entering federal politics. He held positions as minister of justice and finance before becoming leader of the Conservative Party and ultimately serving as Canada's 11th prime minister from 1930 to 1935.

Bradley John Wall SOM is a former Canadian politician who served as the 14th premier of Saskatchewan from 2007 to 2018. He was first elected to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan in 1999 and re-elected four times. As leader of the Official Opposition Saskatchewan Party, he led the party to a majority government in 2007. Wall's government won historic vote shares in the 2011 and 2016 elections, focusing on attracting investment and championing resource-based industries. He retired in 2018, succeeded by Scott Moe.

Pierre Gaultier de Varennes, sieur de La Vérendrye was a French Canadian military officer, fur trader, and explorer. In the 1730s, he and his sons explored the region west of Lake Superior, establishing trading posts that expanded Western Canada. La Vérendrye made significant discoveries, becoming the first European to reach present-day North Dakota and the upper Missouri River. His sons also ventured further, reaching present-day Wyoming and being the first Europeans to see the Rocky Mountains north of New Mexico. Their explorations greatly contributed to the expansion of New France territory.

Ramon John Hnatyshyn was a Canadian lawyer and statesman who served as governor general of Canada, the 24th since Canadian Confederation. He was educated in Saskatchewan and served in the Royal Canadian Air Force before being elected to the House of Commons in 1974. Hnatyshyn was appointed to the Queen's Privy Council for Canada in 1979 and served as a minister of the Crown in two non-successive governments until 1988. He became governor general in 1989, focusing on inclusivity and raising the stature of Ukrainian Canadians. After his term, he continued his legal career and served as Chancellor of Carleton University.

Belinda Stronach is a prominent Canadian businesswoman and philanthropist known for her impactful contributions in both sectors. She served as a Member of Parliament in the House of Commons of Canada, initially with the Conservative Party before crossing over to the Liberals. During her political career, she held important ministerial positions. Post-politics, she played a key role at Magna International and co-founded Acasta Enterprises. Currently, she holds leadership roles at The Stronach Group and The Belinda Stronach Foundation, showcasing her commitment to business and charitable endeavors.

Frank McKenna is a prominent Canadian businessman, former politician, and diplomat. He has held various significant positions throughout his career, including serving as the Canadian Ambassador to the United States and as the 27th premier of New Brunswick. McKenna achieved a notable accomplishment by winning every seat in the province during his first election as premier. Currently, he holds the position of Deputy Chairman at the Toronto-Dominion Bank, showcasing his continued influence and involvement in the business world.

Gabriel Dumont was a prominent Métis political figure known for his leadership during the North-West Rebellion. He played a crucial role in battles such as Batoche, Fish Creek, and Duck Lake. Dumont negotiated treaties with the Blackfoot tribe and the Dakota, showcasing his diplomatic skills. Elected as hunt chief of the Saskatchewan Métis, he was instrumental in the community's well-being and led the rebellion against the Canadian government. Dumont's legacy lives on through landmarks, institutions, and literature dedicated to his political endeavors.

Ralph Goodale is a Canadian diplomat and retired politician who has had a long and distinguished career in public service. He first entered politics in 1974 as a Member of Parliament for Assiniboia, later transitioning to provincial politics in Saskatchewan. Goodale returned to federal politics in 1993, representing Regina—Wascana. Throughout his career, he held various ministerial positions, including minister of finance and minister of public safety, serving in the governments of Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin, and Justin Trudeau.

General Sir Henry Clinton was a distinguished British Army officer and politician. He served as a general during the American War of Independence, where he held the position of British Commander-in-Chief in America. Clinton was a Member of Parliament for several years, thanks to his cousin's influence. Later in his career, he was appointed as the Governor of Gibraltar, although he passed away before taking up the role. His professional life was marked by significant military achievements and political responsibilities.

Pîhtokahanapiwiyin, also known as Poundmaker, was a Plains Cree chief recognized for his role as a peacemaker and protector of his people, the Poundmaker Cree Nation. His skill at leading buffalo into enclosures for harvest earned him his name. During the North-West Rebellion in 1885, his band faced an attack by Canadian troops, leading to a battle and subsequent surrender. Despite being convicted of treason and imprisoned, he is remembered for his leadership and resilience. His exoneration and apology from the Canadian Prime Minister in 2019 highlighted his significant professional legacy.

George-Étienne Cartier was a Canadian statesman and Father of Confederation. As leader of the Parti bleu, he played a crucial role in Canadian politics, advocating for the Civil Code of Lower Canada and primary education. Cartier supported Confederation due to his concerns about American expansion. His influence and leadership earned him the title of “The Kingpin of Confederation.” His legacy as one of the key figures in the formation of Canada is widely recognized alongside other Fathers of Confederation like Macdonald and George Brown.

Paul Watson is a Canadian-American environmental, conservation, and animal rights activist known for founding the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, a marine conservation group focused on anti-poaching and direct action. Watson's advocacy has led to legal challenges in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Norway, Costa Rica, and Japan. He has been involved in high-profile actions against whaling and illegal fishing, and his tactics have sparked controversy, with accusations of eco-terrorism. Watson also promotes veganism, population reduction, and a biocentric worldview.

Erin O'Toole is a former Canadian politician and member of Parliament for Durham. He served as leader of the Conservative Party and the Official Opposition from 2020 to 2022. Prior to his political career, O'Toole joined the Canadian Forces, studied at the Royal Military College, and attained the rank of captain. He later practiced law before being elected to the House of Commons in 2012. O'Toole briefly served as veterans affairs minister in 2015 and ran for party leadership in 2017, ultimately becoming party leader in 2020.

Henri Bourassa was a prominent French Canadian political leader and publisher known for his outspoken opposition to British involvement in wars, particularly during the Second Boer War and World War I. He challenged proposals for militarization and conscription, advocating for Canada's interests and asserting French-Canadian nationalism. Bourassa played a crucial role in shaping French Canada's stance towards the Canadian Confederation of 1867, leaving a lasting impact on the political landscape of Canada.