Passion or Profession: Statesman

Period: 1815–1891

Though born in Scotland, Macdonald’s family immigrated to Canada when he was a young child. Macdonald was educated as a lawyer and soon became involved in politics. After being elected to the Legislative Assembly, he went on to become leader of the Conservative Party and joint premier in 1856. It was largely his diplomatic skills that made the Confederation of 1867 possible, thus Macdonald is seen as a founding father of Canada. He was also instrumental in incorporating more provinces into the new nation.