Find biographical information about Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada's first Prime Minister.
Themes:
Political Leader
Born: 11 January 1815
Died: 6 June 1891
Birthplace: Glasgow, Scotland
Best known as: Prime Minister of Canada 1867-73 and 1878-91
John A. Macdonald was born in Scotland, then emigrated to Canada as a young boy. After practicing law in Kingston, Ontario, Macdonald went into politics and during the 1860s championed the confederation of the Canadian provinces. He was instrumental in securing passage of the British North America Act, and is considered the primary organizer of the Dominion of Canada, serving as its first Prime Minister.
Copyright © 1998-2006 by Who2?, LLC. All rights reserved.
Extension Activities
- Use the biography above and reference materials to complete a Prime Minister Profile.
- Review the political affiliations of prime ministers.
- Compare John A. Macdonald with Lester Bowles Pearson.
- Design a campaign poster for the prime minister that best represents the spirit of Canada.
- Review a list of Canadian prime ministers since 1867.
- Fine the names in a Prime Minister Word Search.
