Rebellions in 1837-1838

Canada’s Lower and Upper Reformers felt that the government’s progress toward a complete and full democracy had been too slow since the 1830s. Many people thought Canadians should adopt republican principles from the Americans or perhaps, join them.

They tried to incite armed rebellions outside of Toronto and Montreal, but the rebels did succeed in getting support for their cause. These insurrectionists were defeated by Canadian volunteers and British troops. Many rebels were either executed or exiled. Some of these exiles would later return to Canada.