Indigenous Rights: Riel was deeply committed to the preservation of Indigenous rights and culture. He believed the Canadian government's policies were unjust and threatened Indigenous communities. He sought to protect their land, resources, and traditional way of life.
Métis Identity: As a Métis leader, Riel was driven by a desire to assert and defend the unique identity and political rights of the Métis people. He believed the Métis were a distinct nation with their language, culture, and history, and he wanted to secure their recognition and self-determination.
Political Discontent: Riel's actions were also influenced by the political grievances of the people in the Red River Settlement. Many settlers were dissatisfied with the Canadian government's neglect of their needs, lack of representation, and economic challenges. Riel became a symbol of resistance against these perceived injustices.
Resistance to Expansion: Riel and many settlers felt that the Canadian government was encroaching on their territory without due consultation or respect for their rights. They feared the loss of their land, culture, and way of life as the Dominion of Canada expanded westward.
Religious Conviction: Riel was a deeply religious man and drew inspiration from Catholic teachings on social justice and the rights of the marginalized. He believed he had a moral duty to stand up for the oppressed and fight for the rights of Indigenous peoples and the Métis.
It's important to recognize that Riel's actions were not purely motivated by personal ambition but were driven by a genuine desire to protect the rights and interests of the Indigenous and Métis peoples he represented. His complex legacy continues to be debated and reevaluated, highlighting the ongoing importance of understanding historical contexts and the perspectives of marginalized groups.