Louis Riel and the councillors of the Provisional Government of the Métis Nation

Louis Riel (1844–1885) was a Canadian political and spiritual leader, best known for his role in leading the Métis people in their struggles for rights and recognition in Canada. He is regarded as a key figure in the history of both the Métis Nation and the Canadian West. Riel played an important role in two significant uprisings, the **Red River Rebellion** (1869–1870) and the **North-West Rebellion** (1885), both of which were pivotal events in Canadian history.

### **The Red River Rebellion and Provisional Government:**
Riel’s most notable role came in 1869 when he led the Métis in the **Red River Rebellion** in what is now Manitoba. At the time, the Hudson’s Bay Company had ceded control of its vast western territories to the Canadian government, but the Métis, who were of mixed European and Indigenous heritage, were concerned about losing their land, culture, and rights under the new Canadian administration.

In response to this, Riel established the **Provisional Government of the Métis Nation**, which sought to negotiate the terms under which the region would enter Confederation. He was elected as the head of this government and played a central role in negotiating the terms that would later lead to the **Manitoba Act of 1870**, which created the province of Manitoba. This act ensured that the rights and land claims of the Métis were protected, and it also allowed for the inclusion of French language and Catholic rights in the new province’s legal framework.

The Provisional Government was made up of a number of key Métis and Indigenous leaders who supported Riel in his efforts. Some of the prominent members of Riel's council included:

- **G. A. (Gabriel) Dumont**: A prominent Métis military leader and key ally of Riel, who was instrumental in organizing the defense of the Red River settlement and supporting Riel’s leadership during the rebellion.
- **Léon Gérin**: A member of the Métis community who played a role in the negotiations and the administration of the Provisional Government.
- **Ambroise-Dydime Lépine**: A Métis politician who served as a member of Riel's Provisional Government and a leader in the rebellion.

### **Aftermath and Exile:**
Following the success of the Red River Rebellion, Riel fled to the United States to avoid arrest, living in exile for several years. His involvement in the Métis cause continued when, in 1885, he returned to lead the **North-West Rebellion** (also called the **Saskatchewan Rebellion**) in what is now Saskatchewan. This rebellion, which was again driven by the Métis and Indigenous populations, was sparked by grievances over land rights, the mistreatment of Indigenous peoples, and the perceived neglect by the Canadian government. The uprising was ultimately suppressed by Canadian forces, and Riel was arrested and tried for treason.

### **Legacy:**
Riel was executed by hanging in November 1885, but he is now seen as a martyr by many Métis people and an important symbol of resistance to colonialism. Riel’s legacy has evolved over time, and he is now considered a father of the Métis Nation and a pivotal figure in the history of Canada. His role in the Provisional Government of the Métis Nation continues to be celebrated by Métis communities and is an essential part of Canadian history.