Bloody Relations

PROLOGUE

It is July 1838. The provinces of Upper and Lower Canada have suffered through two rebellions, both summarily put down. Although there is peace, it is an uneasy calm that hangs over both colonies. The grievances that fomented revolt remain unresolved, principally the oppression of the mass of farmers at the hands of legislatures that are tipped in favour of the established order. For more than a decade, reform movements in both provinces have tried unsuccessfully to introduce more democratic, less authoritarian forms of governance. The mother country has at last woken up to the issues and is taking steps to alleviate the situation. A new governor, Sir George Arthur, is appointed for Upper Canada, replacing Sir Francis Bond Head. More important, Lord Durham, a Whig sympathizer, is named head of a commission of inquiry and temporary governor of both colonies, tasked with finding a possible solution for the troubled provinces. In July of 1838, he visits Quebec City, Montreal, Niagara, and finally Toronto, consulting with dozens of locals from every level of society. Months later he will make a report that will forever alter the nature of the Canadas.