In 2017, Canada marks 150 years since Confederation. The Museum is proud to present 1867: Rebellion & Confederation during this special anniversary year.

1867: Rebellion & Confederation explores the struggle for responsible government that took place in what is now Quebec, Ontario and Nova Scotia. This struggle took place in local legislatures, but it also boiled over into violence and armed conflict, both with the rebellions of 1837-1838, and the riots in 1849 that burned down the Parliament building in Montréal.

New to the exhibition is the impact that immigration, expanding settlement, and colonial politics had on existing Indigenous nations. In 1867 many people were left out of the debates about Confederation, including Indigenous peoples, women and others.

A unique collection of artifacts

1867: Rebellion & Confederation brings together a unique collection of artifacts from different institutions in many parts of Canada to tell the story of Confederation. Visitors will have the chance to see a variety of fascinating artifacts, including:

• Weapons used during the rebellions of 1837-1838 and boxes carved and engraved by those imprisoned after the rebellions
• Remnants of items found in the ash from the 1849 burning of Parliament
• The sword of Cuthbert Grant, a prominent Métis leader in early Manitoba
• The diary of Mercy Coles, who accompanied her father to the conferences that led to Confederation
• The pocket watch of Sir John. A. Macdonald, Canada’s first Prime Minister

Visit 1867: Rebellion & Confederation to learn about the roots of Canadian democracy and witness historic struggles that helped achieve some of our fundamental freedoms and rights.

1867: Rebellion & Confederation opens December 13, 2016 and runs until May 2017. (Please note the Museum will be closed January 9-16, 2017 for its annual maintenance week). The exhibition was developed by the Canadian Museum of History, Gatineau and adapted by the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.