The British colonies in North America were dominated by groups of wealthy businessmen and landowners. Called the "Family Compact" in Upper Canada (Ontario), the "Ch?teau Clique" in Lower Canada (Qu?bec) and "The Council of Twelve" in Nova Scotia, these influential groups had the ear of the colonial governors - the Crown's representatives. The governors appointed these powerful people to the governing cabinets of each colony, the Executive Councils.

Opposing these governing elites - were discontented citizens who wanted effective elected representation. That discontent erupted in Lower and Upper Canada in the rebellions of 1837.

After the rebellions, the British government sent Lord Durham to investigate the causes of the uprisings. Reformers suggested "responsible government," which would give legislative power to elected assemblies. Fearing another rebellion, as well the possibility of the U.S. attacking, Durham wanted to meet some demands to keep the colony British. He recommended "responsible government" in his report. This was refused by the British government.

The Reformers did not give up. Howe campaigned for responsible government in Nova Scotia, and in the newly formed Province of Canada (the union of Upper and Lower Canada), LaFontaine and Baldwin led the Reformers. In 1849, their reform-minded assembly passed a bill recommending compensation to those who had suffered damage in the rebellions of 1837.

When Lord Elgin signed the Rebellion Losses Bill, responsible government won the day. Finally, government legislation was to be controlled by the majority in an elected assembly - an important step towards our democracy.