* Economic benefits: New Brunswick saw Confederation as a way to gain access to the larger Canadian market and to improve its infrastructure (particularly its railways).
* Political stability: New Brunswick was concerned about the instability of the Maritimes and saw Confederation as a way to create a stronger, more stable political entity.
* Cultural affinity: New Brunswick had a strong connection to Great Britain and saw Confederation as a way to maintain its British heritage.
Reasons for opposing Confederation
* Fear of losing control: Some New Brunswickers were afraid that the province would lose its autonomy under Confederation and that its interests would be overlooked by the larger provinces.
* Economic fears: Some New Brunswickers were concerned that the province's economy would be harmed by Confederation and that it would become a mere market for the larger provinces.
* Cultural fears: Some New Brunswickers were afraid that the province's culture would be overwhelmed by the cultures of the larger provinces and that the province would lose its unique identity.