Liberal–Unionists

Liberal–Unionists were members of the Liberal Party of Canada who, as a result of the Conscription Crisis of 1917 rejected Sir Wilfrid Laurier's leadership and supported Robert Borden's Unionist caucus from 1917 to 1920.

Much of the Ontario Liberal Party declared themselves to be Liberal–Unionists, including provincial party leader Newton Rowell, who joined Borden's Cabinet, and a variety of Liberal MPs.

Following the dissolution of the 12th Canadian Parliament but before the 1917 federal election, Borden appointed a new cabinet, which included 1 former Liberal MP and 1 Ontario Liberal member of Provincial Parliament. In the 1917 election, many Liberals ran as Liberal–Unionists or Unionists against the Laurier Liberals.

After the war, most Liberal–Unionists rejoined the Liberal Party despite efforts by Borden and Arthur Meighen to make the coalition permanent by renaming the Conservative party the National Liberal and Conservative Party. Several Liberal–Unionists ended up staying with the Conservatives including Hugh Guthrie and Robert Manion.

Notable Liberal–Unionists

See also

• List of political parties in Canada
• History of the Liberal Party of Canada
• 12th Canadian Parliament
• 13th Canadian Parliament

Notes

References

Sources