Key Events in Pre-Confederation Canada

Summary:

Period: 1534 to 1864

I chose these five key events in Canadian history because all of them conjure a significant turning point in the history of Canada. From the first European explorations, to battles of control, all of these were important stepping stones into what we know as Canada today! (Woohoo)

Jacques Cartier’s First Voyage (love that for him)

Apr 20, 1534

• Key Person: Jacques Cartier
• Cartier explored the Gulf of St. Lawrence and claimed land for France.
• This Marked the start of French interest in Canada, shaping early colonization and relations with Indigenous peoples.

Founding of Quebec

Jul 3, 1608

• Key Person: Samuel de Champlain

Champlain founded Quebec City as the first permanent French settlement. Became the heart of New France, controlling the fur trade and acting as a strategic base for French colonial ambitions!

Battle of the Plains of Abraham

Sep 13, 1759

• Key People: General James Wolfe (British), and General Louis-Joseph de Montcalm (French)

Britain defeated French forces in Quebec City during the Seven Years War. This Shifted colonial power in Canada from France to Britain, changing the country’s political and cultural landscape.

The (iconic) War of 1812

Jun 18, 1812

• Key People: Sir Isaac Brock, Tecumseh (two true icons)

Canada, as a British colony with Indigenous allies, fought off American invasions. This strengthened Canadian identity and Indigenous alliances, while preserving Canada’s territory.

The Charlottetown Conference

Sep 1, 1864

• Key People: John A. Macdonald, George-Étienne Cartier, George Brown

Leaders from British North American colonies met to discuss Confederation. This set the groundwork for Canada’s unification in 1867.