Riel was first convicted of treason in 1870 for his leading role in the Red River Rebellion. He was hanged on November 16, 1885, after being convicted of treason a second time for his leading role in the Northwest Rebellion.
Some people believe that Riel was rightly convicted of treason, arguing that he had taken up arms against the Canadian government and sought to create an independent state. Others believe that he was wrongfully convicted, arguing that he was fighting for the rights of the Métis people and resisting the encroachment of the Canadian government on their land.
Those who argue that Riel was guilty of treason point to the evidence that he had conspired with the Fenians, an Irish-American paramilitary organization, to carry out the North-West Rebellion. They also point to the fact that he had declared the formation of a provisional government and taken control of Fort Saskatchewan.
Those who argue that Riel was wrongfully convicted argue that he believed that he was acting in accordance with the wishes of the Métis people and did not intend to create an independent state. They also point to the fact that he surrendered to the Canadian authorities as soon as he realized that he could not resist further, which could be considered as an attempt to de-escalate the situation and seek a peaceful resolution.
Ultimately, the question of whether Louis Riel was guilty of treason is a matter of interpretation. There is no single, definitive answer.