Louis
David Riel- The Father of Manitoba
Born
to proud parents Louis Riel and Julie Lagimodiere
Riel
prepared for Priesthood with knowledge and prayer.
His
father�s death discouraged him; he decided to move on
I�ll
follow God�s ways at Red River where I truly belong.
Times were changing in Red River Settlement, it was said
Religious
values waning, instability and suspicion bred.
Lack
of strong local organization now they may be betrayed
Metis suspicions
increased- with square sections surveyed.
Tensions
mounting for the Metis- strong leadership needed!
Riel�s
ambition, languages and leadership, others heeded.
He
was qualified to lead the Metis people through danger
Bishop
Tache put sympathy in print- Metis
now endangered!
The
Rebellion of �85 could not be avoided- battle must
ensue
Metis
were few, the opposition poised, the slaughter pursued.
Riel
was convicted of high treason and endured a political trial
Emotions
exploded in Quebec, with the rushed execution style.
Widespread
controversy shadowed Riel in life and in death
He
followed God�s given direction �til he drew his last
breath.
He
was brave, courageous, eloquent, hearing death�s call
Later
known as �The Father of Manitoba,�- injustice recalled.
Written
By Carol Howard Vulliamy- 2009
Resource;
Dictionary of Canadian Biography Online
