I think what we are seeing is the creation of a Metis hero out of a nutcase who's only solution was armed insurrection
Highlighting contributions to Canadian society is laudable. Where Riel is concerned, however, that promotion must be limited to the facts about his troubled, chequered life. Riel, who claimed to be Metis on the basis of having one-tenth aboriginal blood, assumed the role of Metis leader in western Canada. His psychosis manifested itself in the conviction that he was a great religious leader and the spiritual hero of the people of Rupert's Land. The problem was that Metis not of French and Indian descent did not share his vision, any more than did the English-speaking settlers or most aboriginal persons. In fact, the inhabitants of the region simply did not want change through violence.
In short, Riel did not have the full support of his people, let alone Rupert's Land that he needed to create his own territory. Instead, he used arms and force, those ancient non-democratic methods, resulting in death and terror. He was accordingly confronted by force for his crimes, lost and hung.
Read the full article:
Untitled Document
