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Historical Significance

The 1896 election marked the beginning of the end of Conservative domination in Canadian politics. Even though Conservatives had the higher percentage of the popular vote throughout Canada, Liberal victories in Quebec would be the deciding factor in this election. The Conservatives' strategy of appealing to extreme religious and racial factions had worked before, but Laurier proved that a more middling approach was needed to win votes. Under Laurier, Canada's two racial/linguistic/religious groups managed to work together in a federal structure. His strategy of moderation would prove to be a successful formula for Canadian politics.

There were several aspects that made 1896 one of Canada's most important elections:

The Emergence of the Liberal Party

Laurier's election would begin a period of Liberal domination in Canadian politics. Conservative power had been gradually declining because of economic scandal and the Manitoba Schools Question. The Conservatives had won elections before by focusing on divisive issues and appealing to opposing factions. However, this weakened the Conservative Party because it caused internal division. The moderate Liberal strategy would prove to be the best way to gain votes and maintain party unity. The ability of Canada's two racial/religious/linguistic groups to work together in a federal structure would define Canadian party politics. The Liberal victory in 1896 marked the beginning of this.

The Beginning of the “Quebec Advantage”

In 1896, Canadians still had a tendency to vote for people with the same religion, background, and language as them. The Liberal strategy of appealing to Quebec pride and nationalism with a French candidate would pay off. Although Laurier had an anti-clerical stance, the hope for a French Prime Minister would prove to be a stronger selling-point for French voters. Laurier's racial/religious/linguistic head start in Quebec would be an important contributor to Liberal victory. The “Quebec Advantage” would be an important aspect in Canadian politics.

Wilfrid Laurier

Laurier was Canada's first Francophone Prime Minister. His commitment to national unity and the preservation of Canada would be a hallmark of his political career. Laurier recognized that religious, racial and linguistic division on issues was not an effective way to govern Canada. Laurier began to deflate these divisions by appealing to French and English Canada without causing further separation. At a time when racial and religious conflicts threatened to tear Canada apart, Laurier managed to lead a new government to power and start a new era in Canadian politics.

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