LE3 .A278 2010

2010

Henderson, Stephen

Acadia University

Bachelor of Arts

Honours

History

History & Classics

This thesis examines Joseph Howe and his role in this history of Confederation both as an opponent of Confederation and his abandonment of the repeal movement to negotiate for improved financial terms with the federal government of Sir John A. Macdonald. The core argument more specifically is that from his initial involvement with the Anti- Confederates to his entrance to Macdonald‘ s cabinet Howe‘ s actions were influenced by: a desire to protect the interests of Nova Scotia, a belief in the value of the British Empire, and pragmatism. The thesis has been organized along two chronological divisions with chapters two and three each dealing with a specific time period. Chapter two examines Howe‘ s Botheration Letters, selections of his correspondence, and his proposed organization of the Empire will be examined as they provide clear examples of Howe‘ s motivation and arguments he utilized in opposition to Confederation. The third chapter deals with Howe‘ s response to the British North America Act becoming law and how he progressed from a stance of outspoken opponent of Confederation to federal cabinet minister. From this the thesis‘ primary focus is presented, that Howe‘ s actions as both opponent and supporter of Confederation were consistent and driven by principle and vision while being tempered by pragmatism.

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https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:715