Nominated by: Matthew

Why Louis Riel should be a Great Manitoban:

Claim to fame: Founder of Manitoba, Metis leader, executed by federal government for treason

Manitoba dosage: 5

Fast Facts: Considered by many to be the Founding Father of Manitoba...One of the most controversial figures in Canadian history...Led the Northwest rebellion and was a fierce advocate for the preservation of Metis rights in the face of European settlement of the West.

139 Comments

• But apparently, the only one worth talking about among the list of nominees.

  Posted by: Sara F. | 2008-05-24 08:45:39

• Eds note: Regarding the first comment... Now viewed as a Father of Confederation, Riel will always be one of the most complex figures in Canadian history. He was never charged with murder. His culpability in the death of Thomas Scott is still a matter of debate.

  Posted by: John White | 2008-05-26 10:12:27

• Louis Riel is the father of Manitoba, fought for equal rights for the Metis People, and is still cool today. I once proclaimed him 'wicked-awesome' man. (Wicked meaning cool). He is truly the greatest Manitoban.

  Posted by: Chris Wilcott | 2008-05-29 08:45:44

• Louis Riel should be a Father of Confederation.

  Posted by: PhilG | 2008-06-24 14:54:43

• Why is this person glorified in such a lovely manner... the point is, he is a convicted killer.

  Posted by: James Klippenstein | 2008-06-03 15:31:12

• A colourful, larger than life character is our Founding Father. His rebellious spirit lives on in his people, as does his sense of inner conflict and fight for recognition. The RCMP was formed to hunt him down. There is a little Louis Riel in all of us.

  Posted by: Brad Monteath | 2008-05-31 16:55:02

• Lets stop all of the voting stupidity and give the greatest Manitoban to the man who deserves it. The father of Manitoba. He has had quite a bit of recognition the last few years and the metis deserve that. They started Manitoba. I know over the years other nationalities have contributed to the growth of the province and they have been recognized for their achivements. The metis have been ripped off of this and their due is now being paid. It does rub some other nationalities in a way they do not like, but the bad politicians of the past failing to educate the us in school properly has brought us to where we are today. I have just left school two years ago and did not recieve a lot of teaching as to the history of oor province. Every student from now on should be handed a provicial history book when they are old enough to understand and teach them the history from the beginning. Not just the parts that certain groups want you to know. Our province has a rich Canadian history and most people have never been taught this. Louis Riel is the only one to vote for. Many of these other nominees have done very good things for their respected communities over time and they do deserve recognition. But the greatest Manitoban goes to Mr Riel. Duff Roblin built a floodway. Fantastic. He was a terrible politician. Louis brought Manitoban into confederation, Duff built a floodway. Do the math people.

  Posted by: arron archer | 2008-07-05 12:56:41

• Founder of our province....Nuff said..

  Posted by: Willow | 2008-06-02 12:54:57

• Everyone likes to omit certain details from history... like he suffered from mental illness and was being treated. He was a megalomaniac who believed he was given devine right. I'm sure Riel would love what his popular image has become like only a man with such an ego could. There was a reason he was hung. Manitoba shouldn't set itself to the standards of traitors. He's simply being glorified after the fact from what came of his treachery... what his true intentions were can only be heresay. Louis Riel is simply an example of history being written and exaggerated by elites after the fact. There has been countless and far greater Manitobans since the age of Riel!

  Posted by: Andrea | 2008-06-10 14:01:33

• He is Manitoba's biggest hero. He is the founder and namer of this province. He was very strong in Moral and ethical values. This is something Manitoba lacks a great deal today.

  Posted by: Ramona Forest | 2008-06-09 11:09:54

• Most of the names listed all have some merit. But to be the greatest Manitoban I am not sure any of the people listed have the precense to have that title. A lot of them have had good political careers or jobs of importance in the public eye. Louis Riel name has been recognized quite a bit in the last few years and rightfully so. His history is from the beginnings of pre Manitoba before we entered confederation. Our biggest mistake to date, but that is another story for another day. It should be Louis Riel based on the fact that Manitoba would not exsist today as we know it if it were not for the metis. They started the Red River Settlement which was the first settlement in what is now Manitoba. Louis Riel was their leader and fought to preserve what the metis started. I cannot justify choosing any one eles in the group you have listed as their history is short lived and Riels dates back to the 1800s. He is the obvious choice on length of the Riel history alone.

  Posted by: robert forest | 2008-06-09 16:56:35

• Louis Riel is surely the first and greatest Manitoban. The movement he led transformed the place once called Rupertsland. It gave birth to a new province that now binds Canada east and west. He paid dearly for his efforts, inspired hope for a new nation, and left the greatest legacy Manitoba has ever known. Born, bred and buried here, his story -- our story -- is one for the ages!

  Posted by: B.J. Biggs | 2008-06-13 15:12:03

• Western Canada started to receive some recognition from the Powers of Eastern Canada. Manitoba became more than - just a province. It had some recognition.

  Posted by: Lloyd Johnson | 2008-06-10 08:42:50

• Louis Riel may be a controversial figure, but no one can talk about the history of Manitoba - or Canada for that matter - without addressing him. Love him or hate him, he is truly a great Manitoban. He is the rightful founder of the province, he sought to seek equlity rights for anglophones at the time (when francophones outnumbered them) and stood up to the big boys from Ottawa. Had it not been for him Manitoba would still be a mere territory, French would have lost any foothold it had and Métis rights would be unheard of. To call him a convicted killerwould be similar to saying that the "witches" of Salem deserved what they got; conviction in a kangaroo court does not a convicted killer make. He was also one of our first MPs (once winning without even have put his name in personally)... There's a reason we have schools, schools divisions, electoral districts, streets and so many other things named after him. Go, Riel, go.

  Posted by: Real Dequier | 2008-06-10 12:38:47

• He is the founder for goodness sake, the first Manitoban!

  Posted by: Steve Ens | 2008-06-11 21:16:51

• Manitoba's history,for well over a century,has been an amalgam of political and religious intrigue. The Thomas Scott punishment carried out by Riel's Catholic metis Provisional Government in Manitoba, inflamed the Protestant, Orangeman,empire building populace of Ontario. They demanded retribution. And, Sir John A., always atune to his constituency demands, mused "Riel's execution will happen supposing all those supporting him in Quebec, howl like dogs."He had already placed a $5000 bounty on Riel's head. History tells us that despite the efforts of the Canadian Government to capture Riel, his leadership of the metis people resulted in being recognized as The Father Of Manitoba.

  Posted by: Allan M. | 2008-06-23 17:00:29

• If we are to mature past xenophobic wars, we need the courage and wisdom to see that we are all mixed bloods. Louis Riel fundamentally challenged the mixed blood paradigm, and therefore sowed the seeds for the only viable "final solution" (global village)

  Posted by: Roy McPhail | 2008-06-22 15:07:51

• there would not have been a Manitoba without him

  Posted by: soody kleiman | 2008-06-22 15:45:08

• MR.HAMITON EXSPIRE ME TO VOTE FOR HIM BECAUSE HE'S THE TRUE MANIBAN HERO THAT STARTED MANITOBA I THINK.

  Posted by: ANDREW HAW | 2008-06-23 19:48:11

• THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE, RIEL!

  Posted by: J.D. | 2008-06-23 05:48:54

• Without him there woundn't be the best Manitobian for they woundn't be a Manitoba

  Posted by: Dominic | 2008-06-23 07:19:54

• MR.HAMITON EXSPIRE ME TO VOTE FOR HIM BECAUSE HE'S THE TRUE MANIBAN HERO THAT STARTED MANITOBA I THINK.

  Posted by: ANDREW HAW | 2008-06-23 19:48:55

• Without him there woundn't be the best Manitobian for they woundn't be a Manitoba

  Posted by: Dominic | 2008-06-23 07:20:22

• Louis Riel is easily the best Manitoban by Far!!!

  Posted by: Liam | 2008-06-23 07:27:24

• Louis Riel Is The father of manioba

  Posted by: Liam | 2008-06-23 07:30:43

• I do not know if we could put this title on any of the nominees. But if I had my choice it would be Louis Riel. I am a history teacher in Winnipeg and I am of German origin. I do not have a problem with Louis Riel being named the Greatest Manitoban because I know Manitoba's history and the majority of Manitoban's do not. It is a shame. The governments of the past have failed the children of our province for too many years and have not educated them as to who started this place we know as Manitoba today. It was Louis Riel and the Metis who did. Whether you like it or not it is fact. I know the french and english have been fighting since the begining of Canada and it does not look like that is going to change, but it does not change the fact that Louis Riel is the father of Confederation. Live with it. No matter what your nationality is, it is fact and history. So lets name Louis Riel the greatest Manitoban, because he is, history says so.

  Posted by: don jenkins | 2008-06-24 17:54:03

• I have not found one reason to vote for this man...did he save lives or prevent deaths...no!

  Posted by: Shirley Penner | 2008-06-25 07:02:04

• From what I've read, Louis fought for justice for ALL. He gave his life so that others would do likewise. We must ALL fight for Equality for ALL.

  Posted by: Genevieve Perchotte | 2008-06-25 07:39:53

• Louis fought for justice for ALL. He gave his life so that others would do likewise. We must ALL fight for Equality for ALL.

  Posted by: Genevieve Perchotte | 2008-06-25 07:40:48

• Louis fought for justice for ALL. He gave his life so that others would do likewise. We must ALL fight for Equality for ALL.

  Posted by: Genevieve Perchotte | 2008-06-25 07:41:49

• Louis Riel is in my opinion the Greatest Manitoban. He did fight for equality of ALL people. He fought for autonomy of the then territory (Manitoba) to govern itself. Perhaps if he would have been given his due at that time we would not find ourselves in the mess we're in today with land settlements and treaty settlements. As for the one of the previous comments to his claiming divine right to speak for the masses, do when they condem Harry Lehotsky who also spent daily time with his God and also championed for the underdog? Did not Harry also feel divinely called to do the social community work that he did? Perhaps if Mr Lehotsky lived during the period that Riel did he too would have faced persecution for his attempt to lift the economic and social status of those socially considered 'unequal'. It is my belief that Riel not only is the Father of Manitoba but also paved the way for people such as Nelly McClung and Harry Lehotsky to publically voice their opinions and fight for the causes they believed in. Riel gets my vote.

  Posted by: Dawn McDonnal | 2008-06-25 08:36:47

• An Edit for part of the above statement. It SHOULD read: "As for the one of the previous comments to his claiming divine right to speak for the masses, do WE THEN condem Harry Lehotsky who also spent daily time with his God and also championed for the underdog?

  Posted by: Dawn McDonnal | 2008-06-25 08:39:49

• Louis Riel is AWESOME!!! The main reason is because he gave us an extra day off! We all love extra days off, right?

  Posted by: Guy | 2008-06-26 07:35:19

• Ya the extra day off is awesome!!! so ya I vote for him to!

  Posted by: Louis Riel | 2008-06-26 07:41:11

• Louis Riel without a doubt. None of these nominees are worthy of carrying his jock strap. He is Canadian history.

  Posted by: gary evanson | 2008-06-26 18:27:56

• He is the founder of Manitoba.

  Posted by: Roslyn Silversides | 2008-06-27 10:48:08

• founder of manitoba, no one else comes close.

  Posted by: E Campbell | 2008-06-28 15:53:22

• Louis Riel is the founder of Manitoba! There is no question of who else can be the greatest! If it were not for him what would we be? Citizens of the United States :-( ?

  Posted by: Louise B | 2008-06-30 21:15:44

• If it wasn't for Louis Riel's efforts, there would be no Manitoba. He prevented the United States from buying Manitoba at the cost of his life in 1885. This does not seem to be known by the public at large.

  Posted by: Claire N. | 2008-07-01 15:09:06

• Racism aside, Riel is the only choice.

  Posted by: J.D. | 2008-07-03 13:20:31

• Riel gets my vote without a question. I think that all the opinions are right, he was a lunatic and a genius, he was a traitor and a hero, he was a a megalomaniac crusader and a human rights activist. Whatever your perception is, he keeps us talking even today. What he gave to manitobans and Canadians of all shapes, colors, and sizes is undeniable. His contribution to our province is enormous and equal to the contributions of the explorations of Lavérendrye, the North-West and Hudson Bay Companies, the Selkirk Settlement, and the First Nations of our area. The Metis were a unique and indigenous people to the western canadian prairies and helped shape the west as much as their forebears. One other comment. Someone stated earlier that the RCMP were formed to hunt Riel down; that`s completely untrue. The police did fight against Riel at Batoche but so did the Voltigeurs Regiment from Québec. That was their job. You can`t hold it against them. In fact the real reasons for the formation of the North West Mounted Police (as they were then called) was to establish Canadian authority in the West (boundaries had not quite yet been enforced between us and the Americas), to encourage settlement and to uphold peace and order. One event that helped put things in motion: `The deciding factor happened in the Cypress Hills near the borders of Saskatchewan, Alberta and Montana. In 1873, some drunken American wolf hunters attacked a camp of Assiniboine men, women and children. The Assiniboine had no warning and couldn't protect themselves. The reason for the attack? The wolfers thought that one of their horses had been stolen. It had only wandered away. This attack horrified the Canadian people. A mounted police force would be formed.` So, please don`t demonize them by implying that they were formed to opress Riel, the Métis and the indigenous nations.

  Posted by: Janet L. | 2008-07-04 13:31:49

• Thomas Scott was murdered by Louis Riel and his men. Scott was a surveyor who was employed by the Canadian government during Red River Rebellion and was imprisoned in Upper Fort Garry by Louis Riel and his men while trying to attack it along with 34 other volunteers. Scott was a difficult prisoner who refused to acknowledge his captors self-appointed authority. Scott made an attempt to escape but was recaptured by Riel's men and was summarily executed for committing insubordination following a mock trial.

  Posted by: James Buck | 2008-07-04 20:12:47

• Manitoba would have become a province the same as all the other provinces without the bloodshed caused by Riel.Lets stop revising history

  Posted by: John Cox | 2008-07-04 21:20:03

• Manitoba was well on its way to becoming a Province. Let's not pretend that Louis Riel had anything to do with that. He was a historical figure. There were lots of them. At the time, he was considered a criminal. Even today he would be a criminal if he did now what he did then. Do over state his importance. He is not the great figure that many are saying in these comments. He supported violence and used it to get what he wanted.

  Posted by: Larry Lathlin | 2008-07-05 06:09:12

• Take a look Manitoba! A monument of Louis Riel stands tall on the south side grounds of the Manitoba Legislative Building in Winnipeg. Do you know why? If not you still live in a free country "so far" to try and find out. Remember He gave his Life , Personal Fortunes and Sacred Honor for the people of the day and to re assure not only Metis people were being represented and heard but all people, those were your previous grand parents relatives and friends living in the area at that time now know today as Friendly Manitoba. Thank GOD Louis Riel was a Visionary. He also had a Brain (to think and dream) a Heart (for compassion and empathy) and Courage! ( he had taken a stand for truth and fought for the weak and suppressed). This is why Manitoba is still here today. Just take a look at the provincial government list of rights for the people of Manitoba.It was Louis Riel and the then cabinet of that time whom drafted up our Rights. These same foundational rights govern our province today. These same rights were recognized by the now Canada (Corporation) Government. Can we truly say we have men of this stature today if we do than remember they have the same qualities as the men of Louis Riel's day. Riel has my vote.

  Posted by: Steve Richard | 2008-07-05 11:32:10

• To James Buck----Thomas Scott got what he asked for. End of story.

  Posted by: jon jackson | 2008-07-05 11:58:30

• Lets stop all of the voting stupidity and give the greatest Manitoban to the man who deserves it. The father of Manitoba. He has had quite a bit of recognition the last few years and the metis deserve that. They started Manitoba. I know over the years other nationalities have contributed to the growth of the province and they have been recognized for their achivements. The metis have been ripped off of this and their due is now being paid. It does rub some other nationalities in a way they do not like, but the bad politicians of the past failing to educate the us in school properly has brought us to where we are today. I have just left school two years ago and did not recieve a lot of teaching as to the history of oor province. Every student from now on should be handed a provicial history book when they are old enough to understand and teach them the history from the beginning. Not just the parts that certain groups want you to know. Our province has a rich Canadian history and most people have never been taught this. Louis Riel is the only one to vote for. Many of these other nominees have done very good things for their respected communities over time and they do deserve recognition. But the greatest Manitoban goes to Mr Riel. Duff Roblin built a floodway. Fantastic. He was a terrible politician. Louis brought Manitoban into confederation, Duff built a floodway. Do the math people.

  Posted by: arron archer | 2008-07-05 12:57:26

• Earth calling Larry Lathlin. Earth calling Larry Lathlin. Pick up a history of Manitoba book pinhead. You obviously flunked history.

  Posted by: jeremy mcabe | 2008-07-07 09:23:55

• Mr. Lathlin: Manitoba was not on its way to becoming a province during Riel's lifetime. It became a territory of Canada in 1869 like the Yukon and North West Territories (NWT) are today. The place we now call Manitoba may have remained a part of the NWT to this day had it not been for the Red River Rebellion led by Riel. Saskatchewan, without the Second Rebellion, and Alberta may have had the same fate under the yoke a domineering central government. Defending one's community against the encroachments of others is not criminal. Forfeiting one's own life in the process is generally considered heroic.

  Posted by: B.J. Biggs | 2008-07-07 10:25:05

• Mr. Lathlin: Manitoba was not on its way to becoming a province during Riel's lifetime. It became a territory of Canada in 1869 like the Yukon and North West Territories (NWT) are today. The place we now call Manitoba may have remained a part of the NWT to this day had it not been for the Red River Rebellion led by Riel. Saskatchewan, without the Second Rebellion, and Alberta may have had the same fate under the yoke of a domineering central government. Defending one's community against the encroachments of others is not criminal. Forfeiting one's own life in the process is generally considered heroic.

  Posted by: B.J. Biggs | 2008-07-07 10:29:51

• mmm, Klippenstein and Penner, obviously questionable ancestry. Don't write about things you know nothing about. There is not enough Manitoban history taught in our schools; if there was, you mennenonite descendants, who's fore fathers emmigrated to our great Province, might be a little more careful in what you think and write. LOUIS ROCKS

  Posted by: Tracey | 2008-07-07 10:32:35

• Harry Letwho. He could not even carry Louis Riels jock strap. Get a grip.

  Posted by: john simpson | 2008-07-07 16:05:54

• I happened to read Tom Lambs credentials. They are impressive to say the least. Sorry Tom Louis gets the call for being a bigger part of Canadian history

  Posted by: don edwards | 2008-07-07 16:30:09

• No way should he even be on the list - bad enough we have a day named after this convicted criminal.

  Posted by: Owen Finn | 2008-07-07 20:44:22

• Riel had a man shot by a firing squad who lived for hours in the coffin before dying.His body has no known grave.Are we expected to vote for this man?

  Posted by: john cox | 2008-07-07 22:03:34

• There are a lot of good comments here, and a lot of very uneducated comments as well. I know that many school programs and text books past and present have not given this the attention it deserves. Before you write something about Louis Riel take some time to really learn what he accomplished and how. His so called "violent" and "criminal" actions have only been viewed as such because they were committed in a racist period where the Metis did not have rights. He fought for the rights of the Metis when others turned against them. He helped build this province, and he deserves the highest recognition for it.

  Posted by: Kaitlin | 2008-07-07 22:35:56

• He is the father of this province and as such deserves to be the greatest , no matter what the history we still speak his name it has stood the test of time and will always do this .

  Posted by: Jim Burnside | 2008-07-08 03:19:34

• Although I respect the decision of many of the these finalist, I think this province needs to know that there was another great Canadian/American- due to his nomatic style of living was completely forgotten and never really recognized for his accomplishment in this great country of ours. His name - Jerry Potts. A guide, a mediator, a man of peace, a Scot, a "First Nation. He single handedly guided the mixed bag of Royal Canadian, Mounted Police across Canada to provide Law and Order. He was responsible for Big Bear not joining the Riel Rebellion, which would have changed the course of our history. He guided law and order across Canada to boot the American Whisky Traders out of his country that were polluting the entire Flat Lands, right up to "Camnp Whoop It Up" - I believe it is Fort Mcloud now. The other ironic thing is, not one shot needed to be fired when the got to Camp Whoop it up" - the American's went running. This is a great example of "How the West was Won" in this great country never mind Province of ours. Better than any Daniel Boon story and I am sorry I was influenced by those when young, but when ya don't know, ya don't know. It also opens up a whole new chaper on why? we are not informed of more history that has happened in these great lands of ours. Dusty history still yet to be told and idolized. Jerry Potts was a man whe silently resloved a lot of squabbles when the Red Jackets can across Canada and as a result, the "natives" at the time trusted him in what he was doing and consequently trusted the North West Mounted Police.Jerry, so they say had a photographic type memmory and knew the entire country side, and guided though snow storms, rain and dust storms. Jerry Potts new several different First Nation's Languages and was able to "communicate" between the authority and civilians, consequently peace was always made, unless of course you were a horse theif, whisky trader or poisoned bait that killed off wildlife, the old Jerry had a different way of handling things. And that is how the West was Won in the priarie's. THe only sad thing is, few of us know about him and that is why there should be a campain to enlighten Manitoban's and Canadian's in general. I would put him higher on the potium that Riel, because he did so much for developing the course of our history without even trying to do it. A silent rider where his actions screamed out louder than words and peace and harmony was the outcome. At a time where drinking, shooting and killing big beasts was the general atmospher, he made the dust settle and civility set in and the last thing on there minds was fear.

  Posted by: Dave Duch | 2008-07-08 05:48:36

• Correction on someone`s previous post: Thomas Scott was NOT a government surveyor just doing his job. I`m not sure where you got that information but it`s wrong. He was an Orangeman from Ontario who was fiercely against the self-governance endeavours at Red River and reputed to be terribly bigotted and vocal about it. Also, yes, Riel may have had him tried for treason against the provisional government and sanctioned the execution, but it wasn`t a unilateral decision made by just him. The Provisional Government were majoritarily in agreement with the proceedings, a couple pushed for exile instead but ultimately they settled on execution. Another thing people don`t know is that Riel`s government didn`t only have french-catholic métis sitting in it but also anglo-protestants and caucasians. There were good representations of each demographic. People are so spiteful towards Riel over this one harsh decision but many forget that he was tried for the same charge! And even more people don`t realize that there were 8 other métis and first nations executed by the canadian government in Regina for fighting alongside Riel.

  Posted by: Janet L. | 2008-07-08 10:40:39

• The situation Riel found himself in when he returned from the east was most certainly not what he wanted for himself. As one of the few educated people in the colony at the time, plus the fact he had had experience working in a law office for a constitutional lawyer (Laflamme, I believe...) made him a very capable individual to help the Métis and half breeds that did not well understand what the canadian government was up to. Add to that the fact that he was considered by the local people as one of theirs even if he had been away for a considerable amount of time... The Riel family and particularly Louis Senior's contribution to protecting the rights of the common people explains why many felt Louis Junior was the best choice to represent them. For all intents and purposes Riel found himself thrust into a situation that he most definitely did not wish to get involved in. There is no doubt that he tried very hard to represent not only the french catholic métis but all the other people in the area at the time. That was not an easy task as there was a lot of animosity between the different groups at the time (and that still exists even today, to a lesser extent...). The stress all of that put on Riel eventually took its toll and led to a breakdown that I think most of us can comprehend...Ultimately Riel paid with his health and his life. It is obvious that he felt very much alone at times and put himself in God's hands... The fact that Riel's name is on this list is proof that in hindsight history and the facts show that his intentions and actions were honourable. Did everything work out as he wished? Obviously not but they rarely do, do they? One last comment in regards to a post mentionning Gerry Potts... There is NO doubt that man was special! It most certainly is unfortunate so few people have ever heard of him and all he accomplished.

  Posted by: Ronald | 2008-07-09 06:05:00

• Keep it Riel people!!!

  Posted by: camille bertholet | 2008-07-09 13:52:05

• If you say something enough times people start to believe it.(father of ?????) He tried to be a leader but was really a loser. Why did he hide in the states if he was not guilty of anything. Why did he spend so much time in a mental institution if he was sane. Why was he hung for treason if he was such a hero.

  Posted by: rwscott | 2008-07-09 16:42:46

• To the realatives of thomas scott. The man is dead and long forgotten. Speaking of losers, what was ever named after thomas scott. Oh yeah toilet paper. His name fits in the right location if you catch the drift. Louis Riel gets the vote.

  Posted by: jacob richardson | 2008-07-09 18:38:33

• Louis Riel-Controversial to some-a hero to many. Metis Proud I am. Keeping it 'Riel'...

  Posted by: Tina McKay | 2008-07-10 11:38:05

• To the Penner comment....you ask did Riel save a life, in answer no he didn't he saved a nation. If it wasn't for individuals like Riel who stood up for and fought for the rights of the Metis nation we would not be here today. The Government back then would have had all of the Metis murdered or sent off to residential school to face a fate worse than death. So thanks to a man who stood up for not only the Metis but for everyone that needed a strong voice to defend him. He did not save a life...he saved many!!!!

  Posted by: S. Bulycz | 2008-07-10 13:57:11

• I seriously wonder about the mentality of some people… As if we didn't look stupid enough having an entire day named for this traitorous murderer now we want to call him one of the greatest Manitobans? It’s truly sad someone saw fit to nominate him, and downright pathetic people are voting for him.

  Posted by: Jocelyn | 2008-07-10 14:08:23

• Dear Jocelyne, I nominated Louis Riel for the prestigious title of Greatest Manitoban because he is. You call him traitorous but I don't think any history books highlight Louis Riel pledging his allegiance to the Crown. His execution was a miscarriage of justice. He was not a traitor. And then you say he was a murderer. But Thomas Scott was given a fair trial - just as fair as Riel's, I'm sure - and found guilty by the ruling party of the time. Too bad for him. So if Riel is a murderer, then so is John A. Macdonald when Riel was executed. And then, so is everyone who had the power to stop an execution. We could include Arnold Schwarzenegger in such a list. Louis Riel stood up for his people in a time of injustice, and this makes him a worthy candidate for the title of Greatest Manitoban. And so Jocelyn, if Louis Riel Day is, as you claim, stupid, then I encourage you to go to work on that day every year, and ask your employer to pay you your regular wage for the day. Then you can look and feel stupid, and double your pleasure, but not your buck. And to all the Riel-haters that have chimed in on this controversial figure and say (there are a couple of comments up there) that Riel was "hung," only Mrs. Riel would know that. For those of us that speak English, the word is hanged. To all those who know that Riel is the Greatest Manitoban - Cheers! I think he'll win. The number of passionate comments here - for or against - certainly suggest he is ahead of Gail Asper or the Guess Who anyway. Keep it Riel people!

  Posted by: Matthew | 2008-07-10 17:29:34

• It has been said that more ink has been spilt over the Riel question than about any other Canadian. Judging by the numerous comments on this site it seems that is not about to change soon.

  Posted by: Ronald | 2008-07-10 19:12:04

• The "winners" with control of a country revise and politicize their views to their own end, not necessarily to the reality those of the population

  Posted by: Allan Peterson | 2008-07-11 04:32:26

• Louis Riel, is recognized by every person in Canada, let alone Manitoba. Not every person sees Louis Riel in the same light. From my knowledge of Canadian History , it is the ignorant that does not understand. Without knowledge there is little to discuss with the ignorant but to let them know there are many facts they need to learn. I voted for Riel!

  Posted by: DeMontigny Steven | 2008-07-11 07:40:12

• The name of the newest provincial holiday stems from a contest that was held earlier between schools in the province. According to a provincial press release issued, Louis Riel was among the most popular choices, and was formally selected Are you not pleased that our YOUTH have an active interest in learning and applying the lessons of history as we should too. Our YOUTH with their choice of naming that day, Louis Riel Day has helped keep his legacy alive for future generations. Some of you may ridicule the name of our new Statutory Holiday but remember it was our YOUTH from classes across Manitoba that chose LOUIS RIEL DAY. After some of the groups were expressing their reasons and ideas, the many groups that picked Louis Riel realized that Manitoba wouldn’t exist without this man, and I think they understood the importance of that,” “They were familiar with his contributions from previous social studies classes. They felt that it was a name that everyone in Manitoba would, or should, know.” There are many great people in Manitoba but Louis Riel as founder of Manitoba should be the greatest Manitoban. Our YOUTH think so!

  Posted by: Louise B. | 2008-07-11 10:24:00

• Riel must strike a nerve with a lot of people as he seems to have to most comments out of all of the nominees. I think even the Free press does not want him to win as my vote does not registar everyday. I guess when you are the greatest someone is going to try to keep the title from you no matter what. History dictates Riel is the winner by a longshot. If you know your history the Metis survived five floods without the floodway. Duff who.

  Posted by: arron archer | 2008-07-11 12:36:08

• Without Louis Riel, there would be no Manitoba. He is the founder of our province, and those who oppose his nomination as the greatest Manitoban should go back to school and learn some history!

  Posted by: Claude Gautron | 2008-07-11 12:55:53

• A person hung for treason named as Manitoba's best.COME ON PEOPLE!!!!

  Posted by: Heather Fisher | 2008-07-11 16:10:48

• He was hanged. Why do people keep insisting he was so well endowed? Only those opposed to his imminent claim to Greatest Manitoban seem to take issue with Riel's personal measurements.

  Posted by: Matthew | 2008-07-11 20:54:38

• For all of you Manitobans out there...THERE WOULD NOT BE A MANITOBA WITHOUT RIEL!!!!!!! It's been said...only the ignorant don't understand!

  Posted by: Hailey Carter | 2008-07-12 01:45:37

• Agreed!

  Posted by: Melissa | 2008-07-12 01:46:15

• I agree with Ramona; Manitobans have lost the understanding of ethical values. So what if he was hanged or guilty of treason...do you think Manitoba would be here if it wasn't for him.There certainly wasn't anyone else willing to give a shit back then.

  Posted by: Rebecca | 2008-07-12 01:49:30

• I seriously wonder about the mentality of some people… As if we didn't look stupid enough having an entire day named for this traitorous murderer now we want to call him one of the greatest Manitobans? It’s truly sad someone saw fit to nominate him, and downright pathetic people are voting for him. Posted by: Jocelyn Are you a proud Manitoban? I don't think you are! Go back to Ontario!

  Posted by: Neil Pierce | 2008-07-12 01:54:18

• JOCELYN: Are you a proud Manitoban? I don't think you are! Otherwise, you would understand that he was the reason you are called a MANITOBAN...Go back to where you came from!

  Posted by: Neil Pierce | 2008-07-12 01:56:05

• Truly the only one worth talking about, as I've said before!

  Posted by: Sara F. | 2008-07-12 01:59:34

• If Manitoba, as part of Canada, is serious about acknowledging the injustices done to our Aboriginal people, then surely, we should resoundingly elect the man who is responsible for founding this province. My vote goes to Louis Riel.

  Posted by: Linda Thomas | 2008-07-12 08:51:43

• As Neil said previously: "I seriously wonder about the mentality of some people…" Mentality of who, Neil? The Youth of Manitoba who chose to designate a day in honor of Louis Riel as they have read the history of Manitoba, have you? Sorry, I need a better reason and I am sure the other pathetic people besides myself do to. How do you explain that their is a statue of Louis Riel on the Legislative grounds in Winnipeg? Were the people that decided that Louis Riel be honored in this way pathetic too? If there was an investigation now into all that took place so many years ago there would be another Steven Truscott, Dadid Milgaard etc result and Louis Riel would then be truly found to have been wrongly convicted as so many have been now. Please read about the history of Louis Riel and then answer this.

  Posted by: Louise B | 2008-07-12 09:43:17

• You`re applying modern-day standards to a historic event. It doesn`t jive. Execution was common punishment in that time period. Riel is no more a murderer than any of his political contemporaries who also sanctioned executions. Get over it.

  Posted by: Janet L. | 2008-07-17 10:12:29

• You`re applying modern-day standards to a historic event. It doesn`t jive. Execution was common punishment in that time period. Riel is no more a murderer than any of his political contemporaries who also sanctioned executions. Get over it.

  Posted by: Janet L. | 2008-07-17 10:14:14

• There is always a type of person that has to back the ruling parties line. The type of person that never sees the true spiritual energy of a certain group of rebellious individuals. Some people are simply born and bread to not trust and to do battle with the established power stucture and often time they lead to necessary change. Bob Marley, Martin Luther King, John Lennon and countless others were those types of individuals. Regardless of what some out of touch people have to say, Riel was one of those individuals also. Instead of sitting back and allowing an invading population come to Canada and have everything they wanted, he stood up to them and rallied his people to demand more rights, which they deserved. The Metis People were hated by the whites and the Natives because they didn't fit into either side, but Riel did not let this keep him down and he continued to fight for what his people needed which was land and rights. He was human though and unfortunately he gave the oppressing force a good enough reason to kill him. Riel's type of spirit is the type that we need more of in the modern world. If more brave individuals like him exsisted today, maybe we would not be in the type of world we live in today with illegal wars being waged on innocent people, the joining of nations to form supernations such as the EU, and the soon to be North American Union that help the super powerful errode the rights of the most vulnerable. If todays people were more active to protect themselves and their own rights as he was back then, we might be on track to protect our rights for generations to come. Riel is the founder of Manitoba which also makes him the Greatest Manitoban.

  Posted by: Damien | 2008-07-12 11:01:01

• Louis Reil is the greatest manitobian... he is the father of manitoba... whoo hooo go REIL !!!!!

  Posted by: Sheyenne Spence | 2008-07-12 11:17:07

• Loius Riel all the way. John A Mcdonald is the one who should have been hung. He broke the laws of Canada by pushing the Metis off land that was legally theirs. Yet to this day no federal politician will admit to that, because they know how much money it will cost the federal government to pay back the metis that still have the proof that the land was owned by them. I am not Metis but I do know a little about the history. I noticed about a year ago some people in Ottawa were urinating on John A Mcdonalds statue. He deserved that. I doubt very much the people that did it even know a stitch of Metis history. It is time for the federal government to make a formal apology to the families of the Metis who were kicked off the land they rightfully owned. It would be fitting that a Conservative government does this a Jerk A Mcdondald was one. Louis Riel gets my vote and the Metis for starting the province we live in today.

  Posted by: nolin barret | 2008-07-12 12:55:36

• Number One no matter what!

  Posted by: J.D. | 2008-07-13 03:12:36

• I agree with Roland Penner. The "rebellion" that this contest has created has turned Democracy into Mob Rule.Perhaps Two Greatest Manitobans might defuse (diffuse) the animosity.

  Posted by: Phil G. | 2008-07-13 06:29:40

• To Matthew re: clarification of "Hung" and "Hangned". You are right. Mrs. Riel should have been the only one to know that. Re: Nomination. Thanks for doing so.

  Posted by: Gerry F. | 2008-07-13 08:10:46

• The provisional government was formed for this reason. In the abscence of governing authority, the people may form a governing body to represent themselves. Riel knew this, it is too bad that many people forget this. Riel is no criminal, just like the remaining governing body that represented the people then,who didn't get chased away. According to law, the creation of the Provisional Government was also legitimate.

  Posted by: steve | 2008-07-13 09:49:15

• The Louis Riel history I am reading by Howard Adams is certainly not the same as the one I was taught in school. There is corruption and deceit throughout this piece of history from priests to government officials of that era with the common goal of controlling the Metis and indian people of the West, and for personal gain. Louis Riel gets my vote!

  Posted by: Gail | 2008-07-13 13:02:16

• wanted equal rights for everyone, no matter what race. Sounds simple.

  Posted by: S. Bertholet | 2008-07-13 20:18:03

• There's no doubt that contributions from many influential people make up the mosaic we call home, Manitoba. However, Louis Riel' s a unique piece of Manitoba history driven by his passion, spirit and vision of a unified and culturally diverse Manitoba, This is what I see as "our" Manitoba today . In 1885 he was quoted as saying "I am more convinced everyday that without a single exception I did right. And I have always believed that, as I have acted honestly, the time will come when the people of Canada will see and acknowledge it." Maybe that time has come?

  Posted by: N. LeClair | 2008-07-14 07:19:17

• Hey, if Yassar Arafat can win the Nobel Peace Prize surely a great Manitoban is not out of the question

  Posted by: Leonard Zurkowski | 2008-07-15 07:21:50

• surely, the intent of choosing Manitoba's Greatest is not to further set people against one another. There is already far too much racial hostility, ethnic unawareness and anger without needlessly partaking in the creation of more. We as Canadians are fortunate enough to have the rights to exercise basic freedoms which are "privaleges" that many others can only dream of having. I feel that the freedom to speak openly, have independent thoughts and the ability to form and express personal opinions all have hte potential to be a benefit to humanity rather than a means by which we abuse one another. It is my opinion that calling Riel a "Traitorous murderer", and using expressions such as "white trash" is not doing this province or its residents any favours and is certainly nothing to be proud of. I am, in general, an extraordinary proud Metis, Manitoban and Canadian. However I do find the continuous lack of awareness, prejudice behaviour and intolerance towards one another humiliating, alarming, and completely out of place in this day and age in a country such as ours. Where have practices such as racism, reverse discrimination and an unwillingness to eliminate ignorance through awareness and understanding ever gotten anyone? My vote unquestionably supports the "Founder and Father" of Manitoba.

  Posted by: Jill LaPlante | 2008-07-15 08:49:00

• The only choice is for Louis Riel. Out of all of the nominees he has the most historical past. The oldest past. And the one past that changed our province for what it is today whether anybody likes it or not. The vote goes to Riel

  Posted by: shannon jackson | 2008-07-15 10:58:20

• I am of Meits origin and do believe that out of all of the nominees Riel deserves the title of greatest Manitoban. He was the main figure in the confederation of the province, although the moron called John A Mcdonald at the time had different plans, it was Riels tenacity and the Metis that supported him that gave birth to Manitoba in our country today. My vote goes for Louis Riel and the few Metis at the time who had the guts to fight and die for what is now Manitoba. Vote for Riel

  Posted by: richard bruneau | 2008-07-15 11:05:23

• I have seen a lot of the comments on the top 3 contenders for the greatest Manitoban. I am not Metis or am I a realative of Duff Roblin. I have never heard of Tom Lamb until this contest started. It seems he has been qutie a leader for the people of the North. I have decided to vote for Riel based on the historical signifigance he has had on our province. Duff Roblin did not build the floodway or design it. He was the politician who brought the idea to the Manitoba legislature. Fantastic engineers at the time are to be credited with the building of this project called the floodway. I would vote for Mr Lamb but I have never heard of him until now and it seems like he did wonders for the north but other than that I doubt anyone would know his name in the southern half of Manitoba. If you were to ask anyone in this province who Louis Riel is they would know. Ask someone in the Pas or Ashern who Duff Roblin is and I doubt you would get an answer. Everybody in Manitoba knows who Louis Riel is and knows what he did. Whether you love him or hate him the history speaks for itself, Riel is the greatest Manitoban like or not.

  Posted by: amy oliver | 2008-07-15 11:16:03

• How many of his own people and real Canadians did he kill to get to this title? No vote. Give us a break and lets take all of Manitobans to make a real vote on who should finally taken off the statues and bridges already.There are far better people who deserve this acolade.Gimme me break already.

  Posted by: df | 2008-07-16 05:32:13

• `Real Canadians`, what`s that supposed to mean? I can`t think of any more `real canadians` than those who are historically indegenous to this continent. And an earlier comment about Riel saving an entire nation is true... think of what the Americans did to their aboriginal people and remember that in the states there is no recognition of the metis whatsoever... as far as the government is concerned they don`t exist. They`ve eliminated an entire aboriginal group simply by refusing to acknowledge them. But you only got that if you were lucky; the rest of the `Indians` were hunted, killed or else starved on reserves. The same thing could have happened in Canada, but it didn`t, and Riel is partially if not largely responsible.

  Posted by: Janet L. | 2008-07-16 12:01:10

• I cannot belive there are over 100 comments about Louis Riel. He has struck a cord with the majority. I have looked through the other top nominees and they are not ever close for comments. Riel , from what I learned in history, is the father of confederation for Manitoba. On that point alone it brings him into the greatest category. Duff Roblin came up with the idea for a floodway. That would make him the Greatest Winnipeger. Louis Riel helped bring Manitoba into confederation. That constitutes greatest Manitoban. End of story Riel wins.

  Posted by: brandon fennel | 2008-07-16 17:08:14

• This is the best this province has? A man convicted of treason and a murderer to boot! Thank my lucky stars I was born in Alberta! We don't glorify criminals there!

  Posted by: Nick Turkit | 2008-07-16 17:57:03

• Go back to alberta where you came from.

  Posted by: calvin doan | 2008-07-16 18:45:03

• That Riel's nomination has sparked so much commentary amplifies his value to the province. That so many people display such hostility to the "bon homme" demonstrates how poorly understood Manitoban history remains. Riel's winning this contest, hopefully, will provide the opportunity for everyone to learn more about our land. Finally, while the execution of Scott is deeply regrettable, it is sadder still to hear so many voices today scream "murder" with a passion called hate.

  Posted by: B.J. Biggs | 2008-07-17 04:12:11

• The truth hurts!

  Posted by: Nick Turkit | 2008-07-17 06:28:52

• Louis Riel is definately a Great Manitoban as he was the one responsible for bringing Manitoba into confedertion. Is he the greatest I am not sure. I do not think myself that any of the people nominated or anybody for that matter can hold that distinction. Most of the nominees qualify for the greatest Manitoban in their own way for the achievents they have accomplished in their own part of the world. I think Louis Riel gets the most comments because he was a controversial figure in Manitoba and Canadian history. I think every body would agee on that except for Dick the hick from Alberta which nobody in Manitoba gives a squat about what they have to say. I myself think the nominees should have been narrowed to ten people or greatest Manitoban in different categorys. It is pretty hard for anybody to compare Harrry Lethowsky to Louis Riel or Duff Roblin. Harry championed social causes in the way his ministry felt wouuld help the community. Whether that makes him a great Manitoban is in the eye of the beholder.All of the nominees have some greatness in their own way and deserve recognition. I think most Manitobans know this but it seems from the comments I have been reading on all of the nominees it is a regional competition. I am voting myself for Riel because his impact is not regional it affected all of what is now Manitoba and Canadian history. Special place should be made for Terry Fox as none of the nominees had a world wide affect as he did. The only reason he is not in the lead is I think every one realizes he has had the accolades he deserved and all Manitobans consider him a great Manitoban already. On a side note to Dick the Hick from Alberta it is obvious to everybody that you are the only moron in Alberta who flunked history . The Alberta government years ago recoginezed the Metis as founders in confederation and settled in a proper fashion. Kudos to the Alberta governments of the past as they understood history unlike `Gary Doer. In case Dick has not noticed people move to Alberta not to Manitoba. So it is obvious you are the only guy in Alberta who could not find a job.

  Posted by: barry roth | 2008-07-17 10:28:41

• Barry: your ignorance and immaturity are very evident in your comments. Obviuosly you don't have the maturity to respect somone elses opinion that differs from yours. Grow up or get back in the sandbox and play wth your toys and let the knowledgable adults voice and respect each other's opinions. Not all Manitobans would agree with you. Again, the truth hurts, it shows in your comments!

  Posted by: Nick | 2008-07-17 10:45:59

• You`re applying modern-day standards to a historic event. It doesn`t jive. Execution was common punishment in that time period. Riel is no more a murderer than any of his political contemporaries who also sanctioned executions. Get over it.

  Posted by: Janet L. | 2008-07-17 10:52:55

• Riel wins the vote. Nothing more need be said. Except Barrys right Dick, go back to whatever rock you crawled under from.

  Posted by: leroy barrymore | 2008-07-17 16:27:42

• The history of Manitoba speaks for itself. If Riel does not win this it is because the Winnipeg Free press is blocking people from voting for Riel. I have voted everyday on my own computer and several days it stated that I already have voted. Not true. So if Riel does not win we know why. Sticking with the history the proof is all in the pudding Riel is the catalyst in bringing Manitoba into confederation. I am kind of curious would we be part of the United States today if Riel and the Metis would have won the rebellion or would we have possibly have been what was known then as the Metis nation. Regardless Riel should be recognized as the greatest Manitoban. Riel and the Metis deserve that title just for being crazy enough to live on the praries in the Winters of the 1880s. Vote Riel

  Posted by: candace richards | 2008-07-17 16:46:09

• Louis Riel is getting my vete. The proof is all the the history pudding, he was a main catalyst in bringing Mantioba into confederation. It would be a good debate whether that was a good thing or not. I wonder what would have happened if Riel and the Metis would have won the rebellion. There might not have been a Winnipeg. Kind of a nice thought. We would not be putting up with two dorks like Katz and Doer. But anyway Riel and the Metis get my vote just for being crazy enough to live in the prarie winters in the 1880s.

  Posted by: candace richards | 2008-07-17 16:55:30

• Louis Riel is right up there, but what Manitoban has had more world wide impact outside of Manitoba? Who ran a marathon a day for 143 days to help OTHER people? Terry Fox is the one! He's know all over the globe and people do run in his name. If you've got cancer, your odds of living have increased because of Terry.

  Posted by: VB | 2008-07-17 20:51:56

• Nick Turkit: Yes, truth hurts, but mainly pains those who deny it. The depth of its wounds are profoundly displayed in the tone and substance of the comments one makes. Hope you see better days -- with glad tidings to all good people from Alberta.

  Posted by: B.J. Biggs | 2008-07-18 06:28:25

• Loius Riel gets my vote. Some of the other nominees have been very community minded and done well, but Riel is the biggest part of Manitoba history of all of the nominees. Althugh Terry Fox was known world wide, he was born here and then raised in another province. He still gets an honorable mention form me. If you read the history books on that era the general consensus is that Riel was the leader of the Metis at the time. He did provoke the circumstances that led to the rebellion. Jackoff A Mcdonald to this day should be charged with breaking the laws of the land as the Metis did have scrip records for the land they were kick off. Mcdonald goes down as the least respected prime minister in Canadian history in my books right along with Brian Bulloney. Sooner or later the courts will no doubt award the Metis their due in the higher courts. It is painfully obvious with all of the evidence the Metis provided to the lower courts and lost that the judge in question is bought and peid for by the provincial and federal governments. As a person who works in the law area theat judge will end his career as a complete loser and failure, as he did not decide the case based on the evidence. He decided it based on personal belief. He also did this by defying the Canadian Constitution. Anyway Riel gets my vote for sheer historical value.

  Posted by: bobby D | 2008-07-19 09:24:10

• I don't question this man's greatness. We've already given Louis Riel a day of the year so why keep awarding someone with this title when he already has a day dedicated to his greatness. This award is almost a mockery of the one day he has been awarded with. I think that this award should be given to someone who continues to do great work for Manitoba and around the world. So, let's be true Manitoban's and give this award to someone who is STILL working to make Manitoba a better place.

  Posted by: Carla Christoff | 2008-07-19 11:58:46

• I comletley agree with what Carla has to say. Why vote for someone who has been awarded with the highest honor possible? Why more? Does Louis Riel need more? Haven't the people of Manitoba heard enough of the sob story? He did alot for Manitoba, he's the father of Manitoba, he has a day to himself, so why more? Thanks Carla for your inspiring comment.

  Posted by: Melanie Hamilton | 2008-07-19 12:16:23

• Louis Riel holiday was choosen by a bunch of school kids. Much to their credit. We had no say in choosing that holiday. Although I am not oppose to it. In this contest everyone who reads the Winnipeg free press has a chance to vote online or by mail. The pool for choosing the Greatest Manitban is about a million people. I doubt very much they will all vote but most people know about this contest. Louis Riel has been given a lot of accolades the last little while but he was nominated and made the final nominees so therfore he has the chance of winning that title. And from what I have seen of the amount of comments on this gentleman, I say he stands a good chance of winning. I will vote for him.

  Posted by: jim walters | 2008-07-19 12:19:54

• Stop all of the whining . If you do not want to vote for Riel then do not make any comments. I think he is going to win because of the history side of what he did. I agee with some of the comments, that he has had a few things done and said about him in the last while, but Mr Riel is playing catchup. The real history has always been hidden from us when we went to school by the pathetic politicians we had over the years. No use naming them as everybody already knows the fools I am talking about. People have to remeber this is a contest brought about by a private newspaper. Not government sponsored, not Metis federation sponsored but the idea of a privately owned newspaper. Riel is in the final cut because he had enough votes to be there. Other than his picture appearing on the front page of the Winnpeg free press if he wins, every one will probably forget in a week or two if Riel wins. If he wins.

  Posted by: carol carruthers | 2008-07-19 12:49:53

• LOUIS RIEL(True Founder Of This Land} MANITOBA METIS LAND... RIEL ALL THE WA\\\\\Y

  Posted by: P.Fagnan | 2008-07-19 15:31:57

• As a student @ University of Manitoba back in 1993 with a major in Native Studies I would like to thank my then Prof. Fred Shore who opened my eyes to the injustice that the Metis endured. For all you "nay" sayers about Louis Riel's "claim" to the "Manitoba" name try this.... Grab a copy of the book by John L. Tobias named"Sweet Promises" In it you'll find a treasure of Riel's (and the Plains Nations Cree) who fought to the death to prevent Upper Canada from taking over Rupertsland. Funny how the "white man" intoduced "firewater" to the Metis in order to basically steal the beaver pelts and parcels of land from the Metis. They were offered $120 dollars for their "script" of land which was located along the Red River in the St. Norbert settlement. The Riel Rebellion of 1885 and the Battle of Battoche in Saskatchewan proved to bring forth what is now called "Western Canada" Louis Riel fought for your rights "nay-sayers" of Manitoba's Greatest person. If you don't like it, go back to Ontario where your ancestors came from!!! Vive la Riel!!!

  Posted by: Curt | 2008-07-19 16:15:40

• As a student @ University of Manitoba back in 1993 with a major in Native Studies I would like to thank my then Prof. Fred Shore who opened my eyes to the injustice that the Metis endured. For all you "nay" sayers about Louis Riel's "claim" to the "Manitoba" name try this.... Grab a copy of the book by John L. Tobias named"Sweet Promises" In it you'll find a treasure of Riel's (and the Plains Nations Cree) who fought to the death to prevent Upper Canada from taking over Rupertsland. Funny how the "white man" intoduced "firewater" to the Metis in order to basically steal the beaver pelts and parcels of land from the Metis. They were offered $120 dollars for their "script" of land which was located along the Red River in the St. Norbert settlement. The Riel Rebellion of 1885 and the Battle of Battoche in Saskatchewan proved to bring forth what is now called "Western Canada" Louis Riel fought for your rights "nay-sayers" of Manitoba's Greatest person. If you don't like it, go back to Ontario where your ancestors came from!!! Vive la Riel!!!

  Posted by: Curt | 2008-07-19 16:16:04

• As a student @ University of Manitoba back in 1993 with a major in Native Studies I would like to thank my then Prof. Fred Shore who opened my eyes to the injustice that the Metis endured. For all you "nay" sayers about Louis Riel's "claim" to the "Manitoba" name try this.... Grab a copy of the book by John L. Tobias named"Sweet Promises" In it you'll find a treasure of Riel's (and the Plains Nations Cree) who fought to the death to prevent Upper Canada from taking over Rupertsland. Funny how the "white man" intoduced "firewater" to the Metis in order to basically steal the beaver pelts and parcels of land from the Metis. They were offered $120 dollars for their "script" of land which was located along the Red River in the St. Norbert settlement. The Riel Rebellion of 1885 and the Battle of Battoche in Saskatchewan proved to bring forth what is now called "Western Canada" Louis Riel fought for your rights "nay-sayers" of Manitoba's Greatest person. If you don't like it, go back to Ontario where your ancestors came from!!! Vive la Riel!!!

  Posted by: Curt | 2008-07-19 16:16:28

• As a student @ University of Manitoba back in 1993 with a major in Native Studies I would like to thank my then Prof. Fred Shore who opened my eyes to the injustice that the Metis endured. For all you "nay" sayers about Louis Riel's "claim" to the "Manitoba" name try this.... Grab a copy of the book by John L. Tobias named"Sweet Promises" In it you'll find a treasure of Riel's (and the Plains Nations Cree) who fought to the death to prevent Upper Canada from taking over Rupertsland. Funny how the "white man" intoduced "firewater" to the Metis in order to basically steal the beaver pelts and parcels of land from the Metis. They were offered $120 dollars for their "script" of land which was located along the Red River in the St. Norbert settlement. The Riel Rebellion of 1885 and the Battle of Battoche in Saskatchewan proved to bring forth what is now called "Western Canada" Louis Riel fought for your rights "nay-sayers" of Manitoba's Greatest person. If you don't like it, go back to Ontario where your ancestors came from!!! Vive la Riel!!!

  Posted by: Curt | 2008-07-19 16:16:59

• As a student @ University of Manitoba back in 1993 with a major in Native Studies I would like to thank my then Prof. Fred Shore who opened my eyes to the injustice that the Metis endured. For all you "nay" sayers about Louis Riel's "claim" to the "Manitoba" name try this.... Grab a copy of the book by John L. Tobias named"Sweet Promises" In it you'll find a treasure of Riel's (and the Plains Nations Cree) who fought to the death to prevent Upper Canada from taking over Rupertsland. Funny how the "white man" intoduced "firewater" to the Metis in order to basically steal the beaver pelts and parcels of land from the Metis. They were offered $120 dollars for their "script" of land which was located along the Red River in the St. Norbert settlement. The Riel Rebellion of 1885 and the Battle of Battoche in Saskatchewan proved to bring forth what is now called "Western Canada" Louis Riel fought for your rights "nay-sayers" of Manitoba's Greatest person. If you don't like it, go back to Ontario where your ancestors came from!!! Vive la Riel!!!

  Posted by: Curt | 2008-07-19 16:17:55

• oops, sorry I thought i was typing the code words wrong GO LOUIS!!!

  Posted by: Curt | 2008-07-19 16:20:10

• On our ground white man you stand. With your greed you made us bleed. Still try to ruin us with your seed. But see,Riel left us with a mighty legacy,that was To carry on________________ our true land...

  Posted by: P.Fagnan | 2008-07-19 16:58:08

• oops,sorry thought I was typing the wrong codes myself.(Riel all the way...)

  Posted by: P.Fagnan | 2008-07-19 17:19:06

• Without Riel, and his contribution to the founding of Manitoba, we might well be just another mid-western state.

  Posted by: Linda Lee | 2008-07-19 21:33:28

• May I suggest to all of you on both sides of the fence to source out your information at the HBC Archives. Don't rely on the generalizations of others and for your own sake, read the primary source material for Red River before making fools of yourselves in this forum.

  Posted by: Sidney Halley | 2008-07-20 08:07:45

• WELL, im sorry to say he a day already! Give some of the other manitobans regigniton. Yea hes a good man and all,but whatever. Rather vote for someone whos alive and is making changes in the community in our generation. jeeze.

  Posted by: ashley Agorei | 2008-07-20 11:34:37

• WELL, im sorry to say he a day already! Give some of the other manitobans regigniton. Yea hes a good man and all,but whatever. Rather vote for someone whos alive and is making changes in the community in our generation. jeeze.

  Posted by: ashley Agorei | 2008-07-20 11:35:03

• I would have to say, if it wasn't for Louis Riel, Manitoba would either not exist or be part of the U.S.

  Posted by: Aidan Prenovault | 2008-07-20 21:26:34

• I am a proud Metis woman who has always lived in Southwestern Manitoba and will die in Southwestern Manitoba! I have had the pleasure of working for the Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF)and through the years everyone has heard many stories about Mr. Riel, I choose to listen and learn from these "stories". No one can change the past, we as Metis people can help educate others. I believe in the Metis, and Metis I stand! I vote Riel!

  Posted by: Tammy | 2008-07-27 01:58:26

• Truly, the story of Louis Riel is a very complex and convoluted one. As a former resident of Manitoba (now residing in Ontario) and a person who is writing a small book on Riel, I have been caught up in researching his life and the many complex facets of same. No one can agree on the type of person he was. To me, Riel was a person ahead of his time with a strong sense of social justice. Yes, he was hanged but remember, he was tried according to the laws prevalent in the West at that time. Yes, he did lead two rebellions, no one can deny that....and yes, lives were lost and mayhem ruled the day. But, one must remember that the government under Sir John A. Macdonald was basically a bigoted government - and because Macdonald wanted to push through the CPR railway, he took strong measures against Riel, the man who opposed him at every turn. Yes, Riel was truly a sensitive humanitarian who found himself facing an insensitive and unfair government when standing up the rights of his people. Society was very different then. I definitely am in favour of a Louis Riel Day as a public holiday in Manitoba.

  Posted by: Ann | 2008-09-20 17:10:55

• Riel never sold his Metis Rights! He didn't let anyone consider him insane. To protect the "ONLY" people who are indiginous to this beautiful country. Euro-pee-ins (D.P.'s) who came in here in droves would never have ever dreamed of land they were displaced from. They must have thought they died and went to heaven when they got here! Non the less, they remain accesories to murder and theft!!! Don't try to bullshit yourselves...both Aboriginal and others,..the truth stings but here!...swallow it!!!!!!!!!!

  Posted by: RandyRski | 2008-09-21 10:16:50

• I have no clue why people put him in the boook. This man is a freaking murderer!

  Posted by: Justine | 2008-12-14 11:58:00

• this is my 5 or 6 great uncle wooo

  Posted by: sky fontaine | 2009-02-06 10:19:32

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