Arthur Meighen

Arthur Meighen was born on June 16th, 1874

Full Name: Arthur Meighen

Nationality: Canadian

Occupation: Lawyer, Politician

Birth Date: June 16, 1874

Death Date: August 5, 1960

Prime Minister Of: Canada

Term: 1920-1921, 1926

Party: Conservative

A Canadian lawyer and politician who served as the 9th Prime Minister of Canada, known for his strong leadership during World War I and his role in shaping Canada's autonomy.

Written by:

Victor Malone

Arthur Meighen: The Turbulent Tenure of Canada's Ninth Prime Minister

A Leader of Contrasts

Arthur Meighen is best known for his two non-consecutive terms as the Prime Minister of Canada, serving from 1920 to 1921 and again from June to September 1926. His tumultuous tenure was marked by periods of great success and crushing defeat, earning him a reputation as a polarizing figure in Canadian politics.

Early Life and Education

Born on June 16, 1874, in St. Marys, Ontario, Meighen's family hailed from County Londonderry, Ireland. He pursued higher education at the University of Toronto, where he studied mathematics. After completing his degree, Meighen went on to train as a lawyer, eventually qualifying to practice law.

Rise to Prominence

Meighen's entry into politics began in 1908, when he was elected to the House of Commons of Canada. His dedication and work ethic quickly earned him recognition, and in 1913, he was appointed to the Cabinet of Prime Minister Robert Borden. Meighen held various portfolios during his tenure, including Solicitor General, Minister of the Interior, and Superintendent-General of Indian Affairs.

First Term as Prime Minister (1920-1921)

In July 1920, Meighen succeeded Borden as Conservative leader and Prime Minister, becoming the first Canadian-born Prime Minister since Confederation. However, his first term was short-lived, as he suffered a heavy defeat in the 1921 election to Mackenzie King and the Liberal Party. Meighen lost his seat, but he re-entered Parliament through a 1922 by-election and remained Opposition leader.

The King-Byng Affair and Second Term (1926)

Meighen's second term as Prime Minister came about as a result of the King-Byng Affair, when Mackenzie King was refused an election request and resigned. Meighen was invited to form a ministry, but his second term lasted only briefly, as he soon lost a no-confidence motion and faced another federal election. Meighen lost his own seat, and the Conservatives lost 24 seats, allowing Mackenzie King's Liberals to retake power.

Life After Politics

After losing the 1926 election, Meighen resigned as party leader and quit politics to return to his law practice. In 1932, he was appointed to the Senate, and under Prime Minister R. B. Bennett, he served as Leader of the Government in the Senate and Minister without Portfolio until 1935. Meighen briefly returned to politics in 1941, becoming leader of the Conservative Party for a second time, but he resigned in 1942.

Legacy

Arthur Meighen's legacy is marked by his tumultuous tenure as Prime Minister, his periods of great success, and his crushing defeats. Despite his controversies, Meighen played a significant role in shaping Canada's political landscape, and his contributions to the country's development are undeniable.

Timeline

1874

Birth in Anderson, Ontario

Arthur Meighen was born on July 16, 1874, in Anderson, Ontario, Canada. He would go on to become a prominent lawyer and politician.

1903

Called to the Bar

Meighen was called to the bar in 1903 and began practicing law in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba.

1908

Elected to Canadian House of Commons

Meighen was first elected to the Canadian House of Commons in 1908, representing the riding of Portage la Prairie.

1920

Appointed Solicitor General

Meighen was appointed Solicitor General of Canada in 1920, serving in the cabinet of Prime Minister Arthur James Borden.

1926

Becomes Prime Minister of Canada

Meighen briefly served as the 9th Prime Minister of Canada in 1926, from June 29 to September 25.

Arthur Meighen Quiz

What was Arthur Meighen's profession before entering politics?

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FAQ

What was Arthur Meighens role in Canadian politics?

Arthur Meighen was a Canadian lawyer and politician who served as the 9th Prime Minister of Canada, leading the Unionist government during World War I.

What were Arthur Meighens achievements?

Meighens achievements include leading Canada through the final years of World War I, implementing conscription, and promoting Canadian autonomy within the British Empire.

What was Arthur Meighens relationship with Robert Borden?

Meighen served as Minister of the Interior under Robert Bordens government, and later succeeded him as Prime Minister.

What were Arthur Meighens views on Canadian autonomy?

Meighen was a strong advocate for Canadian autonomy within the British Empire, pushing for greater independence and self-governance for Canada.

What is Arthur Meighens legacy?

Arthur Meighens legacy is that of a skilled politician who played a key role in shaping Canadas role in World War I and promoting Canadian autonomy.

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