Robert Borden was the prime minister who led Canada through the contentious years of World War I. An attorney by trade, he entered politics in 1896 and quickly rose to leader of the Conservative Party.
Borden became prime minister following the nasty 1911 federal election that split the nation between those who were for and those who were against free trade with the United States.
Borden is the last prime minister to have been born before the formation of Canada as a nation. He resigned in 1920 and died in 1937.
Notable Accomplishments
Here are some of Borden’s accomplishments during his nearly nine-year term:
- Committed the Canadian Expeditionary Force to Britain.
- Implemented conscription in 1917.
- Instituted the income tax.
- Women gained the right to vote on a federal level.
- Insisted Canada have a say during the Treaty of Versailles negotiations and have its own seat on the League of Nations.
After leaving office, Borden wrote several books. He also had a varied career, serving as the head of several universities, financial institutions and organizations.
Schools have been named after him and for a number of years, he appeared on Canada’s $100 bill.
Where to Purchase the WWI Trilogy
This post is a companion piece to Melina Druga’s WWI Trilogy: Angel of Mercy, Those Left Behind and Adjustment Year. The trilogy focuses on Hettie and her family as they navigate the challenges and heartbreak World War I brings.
Angel of Mercy: A nurse reluctantly sacrifices her career for marriage. An impending war will change her, and her husband’s, life forever. Available in eBook, paperback and hardcover. Click here for a full list of retailers.
Those Left Behind: The brewing winds of war will soon rip the family apart. Available in eBook, paperback and hardcover. Click here for a full list of retailers.
Adjustment Year: A war nurse returns home. Society expects her to carry on as if the Great War never happened. But how can she? Available in eBook, paperback and hardcover. Click here for a full list of retailers.
