PIERRE

LESTER WI L L I A M BOWLES PEARSON MACKENZIE LYON

LIBERALS IN CANADA

TRUDEAU

ELLIOT

YVES

KING

AN INTRODUCTION
Where the going gets tough, the tough get going.
If one has ever heard the phrase "you can't please everyone", they have touched on politics. Even a novice eye on parliament career can see that political leadership takes a sharp brain, an even smarter mouth and a wealth of societal knowledge. However, leadership at the national level requires an unparalleled set of skills. It is not just a difficult job - in fact, it is not a job at all. The concept of nine to five, Monday to Friday is lost in the dedication of this post. Criticism is always ripe and competition never goes out of season. Therefore, it can be said that all previous Prime Ministers of Canada deserve acknowledgement for their time in service. Though this country has seen numerous outstanding leaders in its time, there will always be the names that have earned exceptional recognition.
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Lester B. Pearson is one of them, along with Pierre Elliot Trudeau and William Lyon Mackenzie King. All three men have led the Liberal party to success in government. Their time in office is distinguished through a profound list of achievements ranging at both domestic and international level. As a recipient of the Nobel Prize, Pearson is especially noted for his role in global peacekeeping. Following his government, Trudeau ascended to invoke a passion for government, freedom and civil rights like nothing the country had seen before. Preceding them both was William Mackenzie King, whose incomparable eye for economic and societal needs re-elected him to an unmatched twenty-two years in office.

This biography will cover all three Prime Ministers in light of their separate experiences. It will detail in their visions for Canada, their accomplishments and styles of governance. Equally important is depth on their shared political group, the Liberal party. The struggles that all three national leaders have fought through argue their recognition as the most influential Liberal Prime Ministers of all-time.

{ liberalism }

noun. \!li-b(!-)r!-"li-z!m\

A HISTORY
When John A. Macdonald's authority fell in 1873, the stonemason Alexander Mackenzie formed Canada's first Liberal government. Due to struggling economic state and his own lack of vision, the group was defeated again by Macdonald in 1878. However, it later proved that a foundation was simply waiting to be set. Today, the party has provided Canada with nine distinct prime ministers and is generally known to have dominated federal politics for much of the country's past. With Macdonald as Alexander Mackenzie's only preceding prime minister, the Liberals are also the oldest federally registered party in Canada. They rose to new heights in the 20th century, holding power for nearly 69 years more than any other in a developed country and still a record to break. On the conventional political spectrum of left and right wing, the party lies to the centre-left. Canada has grown under the leadership of Liberal prime ministers such as Jean Chrtien, LouisJoseph Papineau and Paul Martin. Today, it is in the hands of Justin Trudeau (also the eldest son of Pierre Trudeau). Though he appears to hold bright and positive ideas for the both the country's young and old, only time will be able to tell the future of our nation's most established political party.

1. a political philosophy that emphasizes belief in progress, individual freedom, and a democratic form of government.

2. the quality or state of being liberal.

3. liberalism. the principles and practices of a Liberal political party.

1896 - 1911 : WILFRID LAURIER

A fundamental character in Liberal history is Sir Wilfrid Laurier, who won the election of 1896 on a platform of provincial rights. He was a Quebecker that recognized the value and virtue of racial conciliation. Laurier called for the promotion of immigration, the construction of a transcontinental railway, peace between French and English Canadians, an expansionary role of government and development of Canada's relationship with the United States of America. One of his most noted achievements was a reciprocity agreement with the neighbouring country. Though an ambitious party success at that time, it ultimately proved to be his downfall: in 1911, Laurier lost the support of the business community (who had lost their own protection) and was defeated by the face of Conservative anti-Americanism. Second-rank would soon to prove to be only temporary, as William Lyon Mackenzie King would eventually step in to maintain the party's dominance for more than two decades.

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Depression came as the shock of 1930. Countless numbers of Canadians were instantaneously left unemployed and homeless. Owners of small businesses and immigrants were especially hard-hit, as the new catastrophe coupled on with struggles they already faced. People were hungry Soup Kitchens filled up with men and women who would not have dreamed they would ever be in need of its service. However, nothing was comparable to the hardship of a farmer crippled by the Prairie drought. As a nation that often takes pride in its endless lands, Canada's heavy dependence on raw material and farm exports caved in with the global economic downfall. Now, one in five Canadians were dependent on government relief for survival.

quick stats
- Gross National Expenditure down 42% from 1929-1933 - 66% of Saskatchewan rural population in relief - 30,000 immigrants leaving Canada

1935
A CANADIAN DEPRESSION
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Government demand became an endless list. Faced with the impossible task of a nation where 30% of the labour force was out of work, radical action had to be taken. During this time, the political scene underwent a considerable transformation to flex and fit population needs social welfare was born, numerous political movements took place and the government was forced to delve into economic issues that had stood once stood stale. Riots took place at unemployment relief camps - the most noted of them being the Regina Riot of 1935, where 130 men where arrested. Desperate voters shifted from Liberal to Conservative and back again. Ideas in recovery shared by both parties and most economists were proved wrong. Politics began to fluctuate in the face of such crisis, spawning political reform movements. Notable examples include: the "Work and Wages" program of British Columbia Premier Pattullo, the Union Nationale of Maurice Duplessis and the democratic socialism of J.S Woodsworth and his Cooperative Commonwealth Federation.

UNEMPLOYMENT & DEFICIT

ENTER MACKENZIE KING'S WORLD DURING HIS SERVICE FROM 1935 - 48.
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KING OR CHAOS
William Lyon Mackenzie King's government had led the country through the roaring 20's and like everyone else, was then dunked headfirst into cold water of the dirty 30's. Initially, he refused to acknowledge the severe effect of Depression on Canada and turned down demand for aid. Consequently, Conservative leader Bennett saw the chance to step in and win majority. Though a successful attempt, he had promised too much too soon - the voters soon realized even Bennett could not hold back a tide of unemployment with efficiency. King regained popular vote again by 1935 with his slogan "KING OR CHAOS". The previous leader was able to recognize his mistakes and quickly pulled the party together, introducing a new Liberal platform. He was able to break free from traditional Liberal preconceptions and face the challenge with new visions. One of these ideas was an aid for inflation: government-controlled "central banks" who would alter the money supply on basis of public need. This implied direct intervention with an agency that could protect sound money and introduce policies of controlled inflation. The Liberals remained united as their Conservative opposition fell apart. When King was re-elected in 1935, his political skills were put to the ultimate test. King was known to have an eye for talent and his appointment of colleagues to minister positions proved an able group. Improvement came slow but steady. In 1937 however, the government experienced another downfall with the driest summer on Prairie land to date. 5

time in office:
1921 - 1926 1926 - 1930 1935 - 1948
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King faced the depression with an international standpoint. His promise was the success of a trade treaty with the United States. Within two weeks of taking office in November, King was in Washington to see it done. Smart action was seen in his enlistment on the support of Cordell Hull, the American secretary of state. President Roosevelt and King took an immediate comfort with one another, as King could also talk knowledgeably about American politics and politicians. The Prime Minister returned to Canada with the promised treaty that gave Canadian farm products expanded access to the American market.

Strategic skill: Conference of 1937

The Imperial Conference of 1937 became another great opportunity for King to lower trade barriers, improve relations and stimulate the Canadian economy. He encouraged the negotiation of a trade agreement between Britain and the U.S, believing that it would improve Canada's neighboring economies and consequently her own relations. In accordance with the 1932 Ottawa agreements, King was fully aware that Britain could not reduce tariffs on American goods such as metals, apples and lumber without asking Canada to give up these prior preferences. He took this chance to insist on compensation for Canadian concessions. Finally, a treaty was signed in 1938 that had tangible benefits for each region of Canada. This was an intelligent and strategic move by King. He had proved his worth during the Depression, as he continued to lead Canada through the entirety of the Second World War and into the post-war times of 1948.

Left to Right: W.L.M .King, F.D. Roosevelt, W.L. Churchill and Sir Alexander Cambridge, Earl of Athlone and Governer General of Canada

King George VI and King pictured at Buckingham palace 6 during the Imperial Conference of 1937 in London.

At La Citadelle during the Quebec Conference of 1943 to discuss the invasion of France during WWII.

!"#$% &"#% '()*+#,$% -)././% 0)#1% .$&*% &"#% /#-*$2% 03*4,3% 1,)! Canada was still a nation of only
eleven million people - most of whom still emerging from the depths of Depression. However, our nation managed to contribute an enormous effort that proved far beyond expectations. More than one million Canadian men and women served full-time in the armed services. By the nature of world war, Canada's healing economy grew stronger with a transformed industrial base. Furthermore, the definition of international allegiance was embodied through key organizations like NATO. Canadian women were able to leave domestic chores and join the industry workforce, playing a crucial role that was the cornerstone of oversea Canadian forces. It was a busy time for the small country and Prime Minister King remained in power, leading us through one more of the most significant events in Canadian history.

WAR ERA
5*$/-).+&.*$% 1,/% &"#% *$#% ,/+#-&% *6% 1,)% &",&% +*/#2% &"#% 3,)0#/&% &")#,&% &*% &"#% 5,$,2.,$% +#*+3#7
Anglophones believed that Canada should jump to the aid of mother Britain, but were vehemently opposed by the Francophones who thought the war was beyond national issue. King's greatest fear was that the country would once again be split as it had during the First World War - he leader knew it would do well to tread carefully on this issue. Once again at the Imperial Conference of 1937, King encouraged Britain to resolve disputes with Germany through peaceful negotiation. He deemed that Canada would only follow Britain in declaring war. When King began to accept that confrontation was inevitable, he promised the absence of conscription for overseas service. This did extremely well to bring Canada into the war (no matter how reluctant King was) without permanent 7 division.

It should not be forgotten that after all, King was still a human man. In fact, he was in his mid 60's and exhausted from the conflicts that Depression had brought him. In his diary, the leader talked about retiring after winning one more election. However, the onset of war surfaced his true destiny for leadership. Despite his age and extensively difficult time in office, King knew that the country's need had now far surpassed any of his own preferences. Canadians needed his guidance through war and he seized the challenge, never questioning the importance of his decisions. The prime minister actually passed only two years after his last term, which many rightfully attribute as the real evidence of his exhaustive dedication to this country and its people.

8,-#2% ,0,.$% 1.&"% &"#% .//(#% *6% 5*$/-).+&.*$% .$% 9:;<= King handled it with
another resolution. He passed the National Resources Mobilization Act, which deemed conscripted service if only the defence of Canadian territory was threatened. Those in favour of conscription were placated and their oppositions did not object to this medium. Another test of his promise came in 1942, when the Allied forces experienced grievous loss in Europe and Hong Kong. With tension rising, King announced a national referendum on the subject. The outcome of this plebiscite on April 27th saw strong support in English Canada but an opposition of over 70 percent in Quebec. This was direct proof that King had taken the right steps in dealing with conscription - the country had still been ready to fall into separation one more. With this result, King repealed the restriction to home defence and explained: "not necessarily conscription but conscription if necessary."

5,$,2.,$% -,/(,3&.#/% 1#)#% ($2#$.,43>% "#,?>% ,6&#)% @*)A,$2>% .$% 9:;;7 It was only
through continued persuasion from two defence ministers that Mackenzie King finally sent some men conscripted for national service overseas. Remarkably, the majority most French Canadians displayed acceptance the actions. This was in clear recognition of King's continued efforts against conscription. They acknowledged that he had tried to ward it off as much as had been possible, and the time had finally come with it could no longer be suppressed. King had gained the respect of both French and English Canadians, holding the Liberals and entire country together throughout the war.
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& Y T I T N E ID ENTER PEARSON'S WORLD as the 14TH PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA

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The sixties' years were ones that embodied the Cold war, social and political shifts, revolutions in pop culture, economic prosperity and radical acts by both the young and feminist. Though social life was rife with bright and boisterous change, the threat of the Cold War loomed ominously over the nation. Early into the decade, Canada's military budget was over $1.5 billion and the armed forces held about 120,000 personnel. The nation itself was entangled by international affairs and military alliances, brought on by its participation in both NATO and NORAD. With growing industries, the race to space saw Canada launch its own man-made satellite in 1962. Back down at earth, the Avro Arrow was a high-tech supersonic fighter jet whose potential became extremely popular though later disapproved by Diefenbaker. Along with the social movements came the rising popularity of drugs, music and sex. The birth control pill was introduced in 1961 and legalized in 1969. and the Expo'
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n i s 60'

: a d a Ca n

E B RE

N O I L L

time in office:
1963 -1968

Also important to remember: Canada celebrated her 100th birthday in 1967,

a new flag was unveiled in 1965,

67 was displayed around the world from Montreal.

Pearson's time in office was one abundant with action and change across the nation!

PEARSON IN PROMINENCE:

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The Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism was established in 1963 by Pearson, evolving to become one of the most effective public policies in Canadian history. Thousands of Canadians were consulted by the commission and numerous studies on French-English relations were initiated. It provided the groundwork from which emerged the 1969 Official Languages Act passed by Trudeau's government, which was able to declare English and French as the two official languages of Canada. It also led to the creation of the federal department of multiculturalism and changed French education across the country. Pearson had directly and effectively addressed the concerns of French-Canadians during the 1960's. Commission business was carried out in French and English, as all members spoke both languages. The equality in opportunity for francophone and anglophone communities were stressed, as well as the means to enhance other multicultural groups within Canada. Pearson had successfully enforced the shared respect of both languages of Canadians, encouraging their complete unity in order strengthen the nation as a whole.

Though Pearson had a minority government, he still pushed to introduce many essential Canadian social programs such as universal health care, the Canada Pension Plan and Canada Student Loans. His care for society also drove the institution of the world's first race-free immigration system, removing the discrimination previously experienced by races such as the Jewish and Chinese. His points-based system encouraged immigration and is still copied in place today. After his signature on the Auto Pact in January of 1965, unemployment decreased to its lowest recorded rate in over a decade. Throughout his time in office, Pearson showed the qualities of a true leader who displayed care for both individual and nation.

Pearson states (in his address on the inauguration of the national flag of Canada on February 15th, 1965): "May the land over which this new Flag flies remain united in freedom and justice...fair and generous in all its dealings; sensitive, tolerant and compassionate towards all men; industrious, energetic, resolute; wise......on the deep and equal pride that all Canadians will feel for every part of this good land." The prime minster's attention to a new national flag was of crucial importance to Canadian identity and sovereignty. Previously, there had been no formal flag which represented Canadians themselves - no decorated banner an individual could fly to clearly proclaim proud origin. On June 15th of 1964, Pearson opened the Great Flag Debate. He did so with graceful consideration, not forgetting to acknowledge respect for the opposition felt by some Canadians. Nonetheless, it was a vision whose execution came to honor a history and tradition that was strictly Canadian. The new embodiment of national identity incited a fresh passion for patriotic love and loyalty. 10

!"#$"%&'"()*+,*',"+--#./0&'%.*1,'"

EASTERN EMERGENCY::
On July 26th of 1956, Egyptian President Abdul Nasser nationalizes the Suez Canal Company. Previously, this route had been owned by the French with British partners as the largest single shareholder As a vital vein of oil transport, this "lifeline of the Empire" has now become a subject of power struggle. By the fall of 1956, a British-French-Israeli military force is burgeoning with the invasion to reclaim such valuable property. Canada has no military, economic or geo-strategic interest in the Canal. On the other side of the Atlantic Ocean, Pearson is in a perfect place to negotiate a middle ground for both parties.

PEARSON PEACEKEEPING::
As calamity approaches, Pearson proposes the first UN peacekeeping force. The construction of a census begins on the evening of November 1st, 1956. Pearson worked closely with numerous country divisions, finalizing a coalition over 4 sleepless days and nights. On the morning of November 4th, the General Assembly approves Pearson's proposal with strong enthusiasm. Peacekeeping units arrive in Egypt. UNEF, as a full-on international force, is successful in persuading the withdrawal of British and French military. By the spring of 1957, Israeli forces retreat. Pearson has successfully mediated peace between both parties, ultimately eradicating the likelihood of a Middle-Eastern war.

SUEZ

CANAL

CRISIS

Over 125,000 Canadians have serviced in peacekeeping operations for the United Nations. Of the near 3,000 UN peacekeepers killed in action, 114 of them were Canadians. The term "peacekeeping" was actually popularized by Pearson, although the UN had not begun to officially deploy personnel under the term until the late 1940's. In the year of 1956, Pearson gained iconic status for his work in the Suez Canal crisis. Though this time fell short of his service in the prime minister's office, his innovation in dealing with the episode was a source of national pride for many Canadians. Pearson's contribution to the UN left a rich legacy in his wake: the UNEF was unofficially dubbed the "Canadian resolution". Our nation embraced the role by providing much of its logistical and administrative support, and equipment with great enthusiasm.

CONTINUING THE LEGACY::

The first UN peacekeeping force (UNEF I) supervised the retreat of armed troops from Egyptian land, then serving as a mediate between Egypt and Israel. This unique operation was led by Canadian General E. L. M. Burns. Perhaps Pearson's greatest addition was the multinational composition of the Emergency Force. It was an unique asset that still serves as the blueprint of many current UN peacekeeping operations. Pearson understood that real strength lay in the power of unity and diversity. Canada had established an international reputation as the peace broker, taking on the task with admirable participation. Pearson's achievements won him the Nobel 11 Peace Prize in 1957, once more bringing international recognition to Canadian soil.
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As Pearson's immediate successor, Pierre Trudeau served in a time where Canada was just beginning her entrance into the years of 1970. Emphasis on identity and French-English relations were still going strong. In addition to this, growing support of multiculturalism found its way across the nation. This led to Canada as the first Western country to introduce a federal policy of Multiculturalism. Tying in with Trudeau's concepts of a "Just Society", its key elements stemmed from the idea of a Canadian mosaic - a mix of cultures that were as eager to share individualistic values as to preserve them. Instead of a "melting pot" in the States, Canada was a place where distinct races could be recognized in a harmonious, colorful whole. Economically, the country suffered. When the U.S decided to relinquish its dollar ties from the value of gold, our own CAD fell in value. By 1979, the it was a full 85 cents below the U.S dollar - increasing the price of American imports. As oil prices skyrocketed, inflation also became an issue. By the end of this decade, the price of oil would be at almost $40 a barrel. To make matters worse, Iran's status as a major oil exporter became unreliable due to its own eruption into civil war. The silver lining of these clouded times was Alberta, who experienced a steady flourish from its own oil boom.

M
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T L U

U : A D T A N L CA 0 8 9 1 d U n a 0 7 19 M U T & G N I A I N N A A E M M U L A A E R D U U T R L T U C I

S U O

time in office:
1968 - 1979 1980 - 1984
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1969
official languages act
Following a recommendation by the Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism, Trudeau passes the of Official Languages Act. English and French are equally recognized as official languages of Canada.

1970
OCTOBER CRISIS
"JUST WATCH ME..." War measures Act reinstated

1980
quebec referendum
In front of 10,000 people on May 14th, Trudeau gives a powerful speech that succeeds in persuading many Qubcois to change their separatist views. The movement falters and Quebec remains part of Canada.

constitution act
Trudeau introduces a federal initiative to "patriate" Canada's Constitution, enforcing in addition the entrenchment for a new Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This was an important step away from British government. Provincial leaders also had their doubts that the Charter would restrict the independence of provincial laws. Trudeau pressed on and by the 17th of April, The Constitution Act was proclaimed. It had been a epic federal-provincial battle but Trudeau had fulfilled a personal goal. The Charter acknowledged minority language and educational rights, advancing Canada's recognition of multicultural diversity. 13

1982
Trudeau's Peace Initiative, where he visited eastern nations to negotiate Cold War tensions.

1984

Trudeau appoints Jeanne Sauv as the first female Governor General of Canada. 13

1983

OCTOBER
Trudeau's ultimate test manifested itself in the abduction of two government officials.
The FLQ (Front de Libration du Qubec) was a separatist, Marxist-Leninist group who often resorted to terrorism as enforcement of party beliefs. Responsible for over 160 violent incidents, they fervently supported the Quebec sovereignty movement. On the 6th of October, members of the FLQ kidnapped two government workers: British Trade Commissioner James Cross and Minister of Labour Pierre Laporte. Days later, Laporte's lifeless body was found in the trunk of a member car. This dramatic episode stirred immediate social tension in Quebec and Trudeau began to take serious action. He invoked the War Measure Act, a risk due to the fact that it overrode the fundamental Canadian Bill of Rights. Canada's fearless leader took the incident head-on: when asked how far he would go to apprehend perpetrators, Trudeau said "Well, just watch me.", bringing the words that would become his legacy to life. By December 29th, police had arrested almost 500 people with suspected ties to the FLQ. In late December of the following year, the kidnappers were found hiding in a country farmhouse. They were tried and convicted for kidnapping and murder. Their actions, though bold, were a failure in raising support for its purpose. People no longer felt inclination for any violent means to Quebec independence. With members serving years in prison, notions of the FLQ quickly fell apart. Trudeau had succeeded in his handling of the appalling episode, showing resolute intolerance of political violence and a strong priority for the safety of Canadian people.

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CRISIS

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stats and summary

"A true man does not only stand up for himself, he stands up for those that do not have the ability to."

"The grim fact is that we prepare for war like precocious giants, and for peace like retarded pygmies."

"Canada

will

be

strong

country when Canadians of all

province feel at home in all parts of the country, when they feel that all Canada belongs to them."

The Right Honorable william lyon Mackenzie King

Born: 17 December, 1874 in Berlin, Ontario Died: 22 July, 1950 in Chelsea, Quebec Religion: Presbyterian Alma mater: University

The Right Honorable Lester Bowles "MIKE" Pearson

Born: 23 April, 1897 in Newtonbrook, toronto, Ontario Died: 27 December, 1972 in Ottawa, Ontario Religion: Methodist Alma mater: of Toronto, of Oxford University University

The Right Honorable Joseph Philippe Pierre Yves Elliot Trudeau

Born: 18 October, 1919 in Montreal, Quebec Died: 28 September, 2000 in Montreal, Quebec Alma mater: Universit de Montral, Harvard University, Institut d'tudes Politiques de Paris, London School of Economics

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of Toronto, osgood hall law school, university of chicago, harvard university

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Goal s: King focused on national unity and harmony. Pers onal li fe: King kept a diary until his death, describing his thoughts and world events in detail. He was known to be highly eccentric and spiritual as well, often writing accounts of commune with his late mother, Sir Wilfrid Laurier and Leonardo Da Vinci. Spou ses/Chi ldren: King married or had children. Poli ticall y known for: As Prime Minister, King was not charming and charismatic. He was clear and cold at times, but that did not stop his service as the longest to date in Canadian history. Mackenzie King had a perfect ear for the Canadian mentality in all areas, was a master of timing and had an unbeatable set of skills. never

Goals: Pearson focused on equality, especially pertaining to French-English Relations, women and development on international standpoints. Personal Life: Pearson was an outstanding sportsman. He also served during WWI with the Canadian Army medical Corps. the name "Mike" was given to him by a flight instructor, who felt that "Lester" was too mild for an pilot. Spouses/Children: Wife Maryon Pearson, Children Geoffrey and Patricia Pearson. Politically known For: Pearson brought Canada recognition on international affairs. His greatest success was the affair of the Suez Canal Crisis, where he laid the groundwork for an international peacekeeping force in the Un.

Goals: Trudeau focused on Canadian Rights and Freedoms as well has preserving unity against the Quebec sovereignty movement. Personal Life: Trudeau was a Roman Catholic, who attended church throughout his life. He dated Hollywood star Barbra Streisand and was known as a "swinging young bachelor". He also practiced the Japanese martial art Judo in his midthirties. Spouses/Children: Wife Margaret Sinclair, Children Justin, Alexandre, Michel Trudeau and Sarah Elisabeth Coyne. Politically Known for: Inspiring the craze named "Trudeaumania". Along with this, Trudeau was known for his work against the Quebec independence movement and his efforts to preserve national unity and prevent violent revolt. He also established the Charter of Rights and Freedoms within Canada's constitution.

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A CONCLUSION

History is, in many ways, comparable to climbing a mountain.

It is of enormous magnitude and packed with infinitely dense material. As humankind continues to evolve, the mountain grows with the shifts of tectonic plates akin to the ever-changing societal characteristics. When one climbs the mountain, they will stop every so often to take a break and enjoy the view from that solid checkpoint. This is where the true historical recognition emerges and the most influential figures are noted. Anyone will stand in awe of Mackenzie's enduring strength, Pearson's political skill and Trudeau's passionate charm. Their accomplishments are themselves hills upon hills of battle - Mackenzie King dealt with the weight of an entire nation for nearly twenty-two years, not to mention the fact that this time included both the Great Depression and the Second World War. It is already common knowledge that the world of politics is exhaustive, tumultuous with head-on-head battle and overflowing with incessant criticism. As Lester B. Pearson pushed peacekeeping onto an international stage and then applied it to the Suez Crisis, he solidified the success of negotiation over violence. When Trudeau stepped in after him as Prime Minister, politics began to take many Canadians by passion. As a leader, Pierre Trudeau envisioned the "Just Society" and laid the groundwork for its development. As a public figure, his inspiration of "Trudeaumania" incited a fervent, freshly new interest in politics and society that took root in millions of Canadian hearts.

All three Liberal leaders made history during their times of service, founding legacies that would continue to be studied in schools and analyzed by current politicians. As Canada's oldest and most fundamental political party, the Liberal story is driven by the journeys of its most influential members. King, Trudeau and Pearson were all men who strived to better the nation - doing so not for status or acknowledgement, but because they harbored a deep love for this country and all its people. Their accomplishments have yet to be rivaled and it is in their exceptional service that Canadian politics can find a strong, outstanding foundation to build upon. 17
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