1. Economic Concerns:
- PEI's economy was largely based on agriculture and fishing, and there were concerns that joining the Confederation would lead to increased competition from other provinces, potentially harming the local economy.
2. Fear of Losing Autonomy:
- PEI had a strong sense of independence, and many residents feared that joining the Confederation would result in a loss of local autonomy and control over their affairs.
3. Representation and Population Concerns:
- PEI had a relatively small population compared to other provinces, and there were concerns that the island would not have adequate representation in the new federal government.
4. Transportation Issues:
- The transportation links between PEI and the mainland were limited and unreliable in the mid-1800s. Concerns arose about how the island would connect to the rest of the country and whether the federal government would provide adequate infrastructure.
5. Financial Terms and Land Rights:
- PEI sought favorable financial terms and land rights in exchange for joining the Confederation. The initial terms offered by the Canadian government did not meet the island's demands.
6. Lack of Clear Benefits:
- Many residents of PEI questioned the tangible benefits of joining the Confederation. They were unsure how it would improve their lives and address the specific challenges the island was facing.
It's important to note that PEI did eventually join the Canadian Confederation in 1873 after negotiations resulted in more favorable terms that addressed some of the concerns mentioned above.