Family Compact

Definition

The Family Compact was an elite group of loyalists and wealthy individuals who dominated the political landscape of Upper Canada in the early 19th century. This group held significant influence over the government and sought to maintain their power and privileges, often resisting democratic reforms and the demands of the growing population of settlers and reformers. Their actions contributed to tensions that eventually played a role in the push for responsible government and the subsequent rebellions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Family Compact was comprised mainly of Anglican elites who controlled many key positions in the government, judiciary, and military in Upper Canada.
2. Members of the Family Compact often intermarried, which helped solidify their power and influence over generations.
3. The group's resistance to change and reform led to widespread discontent among the population, fueling calls for greater representation and governance.
4. The Family Compact faced increasing opposition from reformers like William Lyon Mackenzie, who organized protests and called for reform in government structure.
5. Ultimately, the growing dissatisfaction with the Family Compact's grip on power contributed to the Rebellions of 1837-1838 in both Upper and Lower Canada.

Review Questions

• How did the Family Compact influence the political dynamics of Upper Canada during its dominance?
  • The Family Compact significantly influenced Upper Canada's political dynamics by consolidating power among a small elite group that resisted democratic reforms. They controlled key governmental positions, which allowed them to implement policies favoring their interests while ignoring the growing demands for representation from other groups. This exclusionary approach led to increased tensions and dissatisfaction within the broader population, ultimately prompting calls for change.
• Evaluate how the actions of the Family Compact contributed to the rise of the Reform Movement in Upper Canada.
  • The actions of the Family Compact directly contributed to the rise of the Reform Movement as their refusal to embrace democratic principles fostered resentment among citizens. The Compact's manipulation of political power and resources created a disparity between themselves and the increasingly vocal reformers who sought representation. As reformers rallied against their oppressive governance, they highlighted issues such as corruption and lack of accountability, ultimately laying the groundwork for a larger movement advocating for change.
• Assess the legacy of the Family Compact on Canadian governance post-1867 and how it shaped future political structures.
  • The legacy of the Family Compact had lasting implications for Canadian governance post-1867 as it highlighted the need for more inclusive political structures. Their resistance to democratic reforms underscored critical issues regarding accountability and representation, which became focal points for future political movements. The eventual establishment of responsible government can be viewed as a direct response to their elitist control, setting a precedent that encouraged more democratic practices and reforms that shaped Canada's evolving political landscape.

Related terms

Executive Council: A group of advisors to the governor in Upper Canada that was primarily composed of members from the Family Compact, responsible for making key governmental decisions.

Reform Movement: A political movement in the 1830s advocating for democratic reforms in response to the exclusionary practices of groups like the Family Compact.

Responsible Government: A system of governance where the executive is accountable to the legislature and must maintain its confidence, developed as a reaction against the autocratic rule exemplified by the Family Compact.