Analyze the political legacy of John A. Macdonald Essay

Analyze the political legacy of John A. Macdonald - Essay Example During this time, radical changes occurred in the country. Among these changes was the process of Confederation, or the act of bringing together all of the individual territories under the dominion of one common government. Aside from these political accomplishments, Canadians also remember Macdonald for his personal impacts in the economy and culture of 19th century Canada. He was, in fact, a prominent landowner, lawyer, and business during that time. However, like any of the greatest politicians in modern history, Macdonald is not remembered solely for his contributions to the political accomplishments of his country, but for the cultural impact he made on the citizens and future generations who inherit that legacy. In leiu of this legacy, John A. Macdonald has been called a â€Å"pragmatic statesman†, and he earned the title of Old Chieftain (CBC). Macdonald is popularly known for these nicknames and, more importantly, for uniting the nation with his central vision and the construction of the world's longest railway. Despite personal hurdles, albeit with the help of alcohol, he laid the foundation for modern Canada. This is why some have labeled him the â€Å"Architect of Modern Canada† (CBC). ... John’s father, Hugh, unsuccessfully managed a store in the new country, causing even more difficulty within the family. Meanwhile, John was an excellent student and attended a rather prestigious school in Kingston. At the age of 15, nearly 10 years after arriving in Canada, John completed his formal education. At this age, his family expected him to stay home to work for the common success of the family. John did not object to coming home to help the family. Nevertheless, Not attending the university limited Macdonald’s ability to pursue certain kinds of careers outside of the home, such as the practice of writing (Pope). The family, however, decided that Macdonald’s future was best served by a university education. They decided that becoming a lawyer was the best option (Carloneil). Hugh Macdonald had noted how much his son was not interested in following in his footsteps, and he recognized that, because of his own failing business ventures, he needed his son fo r financial support. As a result, Macdonald was forced from a very young age to start earning money (Pope 6). After completing his law education, Macdonald earned certification by the Law Society of Upper Canada and took an apprenticeship under a fellow Scottish lawyer. Macdonald managed the law office from time to time and, after his teacher’s death in 1834, he returned to Kingston in 1835 to practice his own law (Carloneil). During his time as a young lawyer, Macdonald was able to financially support his family and to make connections that would remain with him for the rest of his political life. He sought out publicity by joining organizations within the town, taking high-profile