Social Structure in Upper and Lower Canada

Social Structure in Upper and Lower Canada How “The Man” Ran Things

Oligarchy - A small group of people having control over a country, organisation, or institution. A state governed by such a group A government by such a group.

Disparity - A great difference Economic disparities between regions

Upper Canada • Rule by a governor appointed by the crown • No elections • Family compact controlled the governor • British government believed in rule by aristocrats

Who does this system help or hurt and how? • Immigrant farmers? • The family compact? • The Anglican church? • The British government? • The native populations? In groups of five brainstorm and quickly compose a thesis statement, supportive evidence, and a conclusion. (You have ten minutes)

Conservative - Holding to traditional attitudes and values and cautious about change or innovation, typically in relation to politics or religion

Moderate - Average in amount, intensity, quality or degree

Lower Canada • Structure is similar to that in UC • English merchants and military officers in charge • Seigneurial families and church very influential • 80,000 English speakers, 420,000 French speakers

Reform - To make changes (something, typically a social, political, or economic institution or practice) in order to improve it To bring about a change (in someone) so that they no longer behave in an immoral, criminal, or self-destructive manner.

Changes: What changes would satisfy… • the French habitants or Upper Canada artisans/farmers? • The family compact? • The British government? • The native populations? In groups of five brainstorm and quickly compose a thesis statement, supportive evidence, and a conclusion. (You have ten minutes)

Conclusion - Two forces are at work One force wants/needs change One force wants/needs the status quo What are these forces?

Social Structure in Upper and Lower Canada