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The Life of Pierre Elliott Trudeau Volume One

Clark Campbell

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Published in Citizen Of The World: The Life Of Pierre Elliott Trudeau Volume One: 1919 1968

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Pierre Elliott Trudeau was a Canadian politician who served as the 15th Prime Minister of Canada from 1968 to 1979 and again from 1980 to 1984. He was a dominant figure in Canadian politics for much of the late 20th century, and his legacy continues to be debated today.

Trudeau was born in Montreal, Quebec, on October 18, 1919. His father, Charles-Émile Trudeau, was a wealthy businessman and politician. His mother, Grace Elliott, was a Scottish-Canadian socialite. Trudeau was educated at the Collège Jean-de-Brébeuf in Montreal and at the University of Montreal. He later studied law at Harvard University and the London School of Economics.

Citizen of the World: The Life of Pierre Elliott Trudeau Volume One: 1919-1968

by John English

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	862 KB
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Print length	:	545 pages

After graduating from law school, Trudeau returned to Montreal and began practicing law. He quickly became involved in politics and was elected to the Quebec National Assembly in 1960. In 1965, he was appointed Minister of Justice in the Liberal government of Lester B. Pearson.

In 1968, Trudeau was elected leader of the Liberal Party of Canada. He led the party to victory in the 1968 federal election, becoming the 15th Prime Minister of Canada.

Trudeau's first term as prime minister was marked by a number of significant events, including the passage of the Official Languages Act, which made French and English the official languages of Canada. He also introduced a number of social reforms, such as the legalization of abortion and the decriminalization of homosexuality.

In 1974, Trudeau called a snap election in an attempt to gain a majority government. However, the Liberals lost seats and Trudeau was forced to form a minority government with the support of the New Democratic Party.

Trudeau's second term as prime minister was marked by economic challenges and the rise of the Quebec separatist movement. In 1976, he introduced the Anti-Inflation Act, which gave the government the power to control wages and prices.

In 1979, Trudeau resigned as prime minister. He was succeeded by Joe Clark of the Progressive Conservative Party. Trudeau returned to politics in 1980 and led the Liberals to victory in the 1980 federal election.

Trudeau's third term as prime minister was marked by the patriation of the Canadian constitution and the adoption of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

In 1984, Trudeau retired from politics. He died in Montreal on September 28, 2000.

Legacy

Pierre Elliott Trudeau is considered one of the most important figures in Canadian history. He was a charismatic and visionary leader who helped to shape modern Canada.

Trudeau's legacy is complex and contested. He is praised by many for his social reforms and his commitment to bilingualism and multiculturalism. However, he is also criticized for his handling of the Quebec separatist movement and for his economic policies.

Despite the controversy, there is no doubt that Pierre Elliott Trudeau was one of the most influential prime ministers in Canadian history. His legacy will continue to be debated for many years to come.

Citizen of the World: The Life of Pierre Elliott Trudeau Volume One: 1919-1968

by John English

4.6 out of 5