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Louis Riel Returns To Canada
A Metis delegation retrieves him from his exile in the United States so that he can lead them once again. At his return, he visits Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities to get a sense of their grievances against the Canadian government. -
A Petition Is Sent To Ottawa
A petition outlining the people of the North-West's grievances and demands is sent to the federal government. This petition was orchestrated by Louis Riel and William Henry Jackson -
Canada Acknowledges The Petition
The petition is not ignored however only a commission is set up by the government to investigate the problems. -
A Provisional Government Is Declared
Pierre Parenteau is the president, Gabriel Dumont is the military leader and Louis Riel writes the Bill of Rights. The Metis arm themselves in support of the government. -
The Battle of Duck Lake
The Metis began taking over stores in Duck Lake for provisions. The NWMP were deployed to stop them, and a resulting battle occurred. The Metis forced the police to retreat. -
Canada Dispatches Troops
Winnipeg Militia units were mobilized as well as 600 troops were dispatched from Toronto. With the help of the CPR they reach Qu'Appelle after 6 days of travel and march to Batoche under the command of General Middleton. Other troops head to Battleford. -
First Nations Enter the Fray
Facing starvation, groups from the Poundmaker, Little Pine and Mistahimaskwa First Nations begin raiding stores. Violence was involved. -
The Battle of Fish Creek
The Metis, led by Gabriel Dumont, ambush Middleton and his forces, forcing them to retreat. The Metis then withdraw to Batoche. -
The Battle of Cut Knife
A force from Battleford ambushes the Cree and Assiniboine First Nations camped at Cut Knife Hill in retribution for their looting. However, the First Nations fend off the attack, forcing the army, militia and police members to retreat. -
The Battle of Batoche
Middleton's force of 850 lay siege to the 300 Metis in Batoche. Despite their valiant fighting, the Metis were forced to surrender after 3 days as they had run out of ammunition. -
Batoche Is Razed
The women return home to find their livelihood destroyed and their men gone. This severely cripples the Metis community. -
Riel Surrenders
Louis Riel surrenders, the rest of the Metis leadership flees to the states. -
The Trial of Louis Riel
A historic trial ensues. Despite the jury's recommendation of mercy, Magistrate Richardson orders the death sentence. -
Hanging of Louis Riel, the First Nations and the Metis
Louis Riel joins his brethren who fought alongside by a death of hanging. Previously, numerous First Nations and Metis were killed by the Canadian Government.
