Documents de la Session, Vol. 7: Seconde Session du Troisi?me Parlement du Canada; Session de 1875 (Classic Reprint)

This compelling historical study scrutinizes the evolution of Canadian governance in the post-Confederation era, primarily through the lens of the Department of the Interior—an entity tasked with the seamless integration of newly acquired Indigenous lands and territories. The book delves into the Indigenous affairs and policies of the time, meticulously examining treaties, land cessions, and the complex relationship between Indigenous communities and the Canadian government. The author meticulously unravels the intricacies of Indigenous treaties, shedding light on the negotiations, concessions, and consequences that shaped the dynamic between Indigenous peoples and the Canadian government. These treaties played a pivotal role in opening up vast tracts of land for settlement, resource extraction, and the expansion of the Canadian railway system. The book also explores the establishment of the North-West Mounted Police and the Indian Act, examining their profound impact on Indigenous communities and the assertion of Canadian authority in the western territories. Furthermore, the author analyzes the role of the Department of the Interior in managing the influx of settlers and the displacement of Indigenous peoples resulting from the rapid expansion of the Canadian frontier. The book highlights the challenges faced by the department in balancing the interests of Indigenous communities, settlers, and the Canadian government, while also considering the geopolitical implications of westward expansion and the preservation of Indigenous rights. This meticulously researched and thought-provoking book offers a comprehensive account of the Department of the Interior's formative years, providing a critical examination of Canadian governance and its relationship with Indigenous nations. It is an indispensable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Canada's colonial history and the ongoing legacy of Indigenous-Crown relations.