MP-1977.211 | Louis Riel, about 1880
Louis Riel, about 1880
Anonyme - Anonymous
About 1880, 19th century
Silver salts on paper mounted on card - Albumen process
8 x 5 cm
© McCord Museum
Keywords: male (26812) , Photograph (77678) , portrait (53878)
Keys to History
Louis Riel (1844-1885) was one of the most important figures in the early history of the Prairies, and his role is still hotly debated. To the Métis people, he was and still is a hero, the leader of their nation and of two attempts (in 1870 and 1885) to resist the Canadian takeover of the Prairies. To the government of that day, he was a traitor, and after the 1885 rebellion he was tried in Regina and hanged. Was he a traitor or a "Father of Confederation" who deserves a full pardon? The controversy continues.
This is a photograph of Louis Riel (1844-85), the great Métis leader.
When this photograph was taken, Riel was living in the United States.
The photograph was taken in 1880, five years before Riel's trial and execution.
Louis Riel is still a highly controversial figure in Canada, and the Métis people still struggle in the courts for their rights.