In Britain and the Origins of Canadian Confederation (1837-1867), Ged Martin challenges the view that the provinces of British North America united between 1864 and 1867 in response to the internal and external challenges of the time. After a sceptical review of the way in which historians have handled the Confederation issue, he turns to the largely neglected British dimension, arguing that the origins of Confederation must be sought in a vague consensus among opinion-formers in Britain that the provinces would one day unite.

Inhalt

British North America on the Eve of Confederation - Canadian Confederation and Historical Explanation - The Origins of British Support for Canadian Confederation -The British and Their Perceptions - Motives and Expectations of the British - The Role of the British in the Launching of Confederation - The Role of the British in the Achievement of Confederation - Conclusion - Abbreviations - Endnotes - Index