Laurier: A Study in Canadian Politics

"Laurier: A Study in Canadian Politics" by J. W. Dafoe is a historical exploration of Sir Wilfrid Laurier's life and career; it highlights Laurier's unlikely rise to Prime Minister of Canada and how he navigated the political landscape. The book examines Laurier's early days, noting his initial obscurity and later revival sparked by the Riel Rebellion, which boosted his popularity in Quebec. It also recounts his rise to leadership within the Liberal Party, detailing the political pressures and influences he faced as a young parliamentarian. This sets the stage for understanding Laurier's policies and their impact on Canadian society during his time as a major political figure, especially concerning French-Canadian matters and Canada's relationship with the British Empire.