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Primary sourceSpeech30 May 1881

The Dominion Campaign! Speech in Toronto

John A. Macdonald · 30 May 1881

Macdonald's own campaign speech delivered in Toronto in 1881, arguing for his National Policy.

Macdonald's own campaign speech, showing his political arguments and rhetorical style in his own words.

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About this source

What it is

This is the text of a speech given by Sir John A. Macdonald at a mass meeting in Toronto on 30 May 1881, organized by the National Workingmen's Union of Canada. Macdonald was the principal speaker and was greeted with cheering before addressing the crowd.

Why it matters

The speech shows Macdonald directly defending his economic program, the National Policy, and joking with the crowd about prosperity under his government. It is a rare chance to hear his own political voice and style of persuasion, including his humour and rapport with supporters.

Look closer

  • What jokes or remarks does Macdonald use to connect with the crowd, and why might that have been an effective tactic?
  • How does Macdonald present his own record in office?
  • What does the audience's reaction (cheering, laughter) tell us about how the speech was received?

This speech is part of the curated material that grounds the AI version of Sir John A. Macdonald on Humy.ai — when students ask about related events, the AI can quote it and cite it.

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