1. Confederation: Cartier was instrumental in the process that led to the creation of the Dominion of Canada in 1867. He played a crucial role in negotiating and drafting the British North America Act, which established the federal structure and the division of powers between the federal and provincial governments. Cartier is often referred to as one of the "Fathers of Confederation" for his integral part in this historic achievement.
2. Political Leadership: Cartier served as a Member of Parliament (MP) in the United Province of Canada and later in the Dominion of Canada. He held several important cabinet positions, including Provincial Secretary, Commissioner of Crown Lands, and Minister of Finance. Cartier's leadership and political acumen were instrumental in shaping the early policies and governance of the new country.
3. Railway Development: Cartier played a vital role in the development and expansion of Canada's railway system. He recognized the importance of transportation infrastructure in connecting the different regions of the vast country. Cartier was instrumental in promoting and facilitating the construction of major railway lines, including the Intercolonial Railway and the Canadian Pacific Railway.
4. Responsible Government: Cartier was an advocate for responsible government, which allowed the elected representatives of the people to have control over the executive branch of the government. This principle formed the basis for Canada's democratic system and its Westminster-style parliamentary democracy.
5. Education: Cartier was passionate about education and its importance in nation-building. He contributed to the establishment of several educational institutions, including McGill University and the École Polytechnique de Montréal. Cartier recognized that education was essential for the growth of a prosperous and enlightened society.
6. Cultural Identity: Cartier was a strong advocate for the preservation of French-Canadian language and culture within the newly formed Dominion of Canada. He worked to ensure that the rights of French-speaking Canadians were protected and recognized, contributing to the rich multicultural fabric of the country.
These are just a few examples of the significant contributions made by George-Étienne Cartier to the development and growth of Canada. He is widely recognized as a visionary statesman who helped lay the foundation for the modern nation. Cartier's achievements have had a lasting impact on Canadian society and continue to be felt to this day.