What if Louis Riel did not exist?

Answer 1

If Louis Riel did not exist, the political landscape of Canada, particularly in relation to the Métis people and Western Canada, would likely be quite different. The absence of Riel's leadership during the Red River and North-West Rebellions could have led to a lack of organized resistance to Canadian expansion, potentially resulting in harsher treatment of Indigenous rights and land claims. This might have altered the trajectory of Canadian confederation and its policies regarding Indigenous peoples, possibly delaying or complicating the recognition of Métis rights. Overall, Riel's absence would have significantly impacted the development of Canadian identity and its relationship with Indigenous communities.