Canada's first Minister of Communications, a trailblazer in shaping the country's media landscape and promoting Canadian culture. He played a key role in establishing the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).
As a prominent economist and politician, Eric Kierans left an indelible mark on Canada's economic landscape. Known for his unwavering commitment to social justice and community organizing, Kierans earned the nickname "The Socialist Millionaire" for his unique blend of progressive ideology and business acumen.
Born on February 2, 1914, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, to Irish immigrant parents, Kierans grew up in a working-class neighborhood. He attended Loyola College, where he earned a bachelor's degree in commerce. After graduating, Kierans worked for several years in the family fur and leather business before pursuing a career in politics.
Kierans joined the Liberal Party of Canada and was elected to the House of Commons in 1962, representing the riding of Saint-Laurent. During his tenure, he served as director of the school of commerce at McGill University and president of the Montreal Stock Exchange. In 1963, Kierans entered provincial politics, becoming a key figure in the Quebec Liberal government of Quebec Premier Jean Lesage during the Quiet Revolution.
Kierans was appointed Minister of Revenue and then Minister of Health, earning a reputation as a fierce advocate for social justice. He clashed with former cabinet minister and colleague René Lévesque in 1967, daring him to abandon the idea of Quebec separatism or quit the Liberal Party. Lévesque later quit the Liberal Party and established the Mouvement Souveraineté-Association, which became Quebec's leading sovereigntist party as the Parti Québécois.
Initially a critic of Walter L. Gordon's economic nationalism, Kierans' experience in government changed his mind, and he became a believer in the need for state intervention in the economy. This shift in perspective had a profound impact on Canada's economic policy, shaping the country's approach to economic development and social welfare.
Kierans' legacy extends beyond his political career. He was a prolific writer, publishing several books on economics and politics. His work continues to influence Canadian economists and policymakers to this day.
Eric Kierans' remarkable life and career serve as a testament to his unwavering commitment to social justice and economic equality. As a champion of progressive values, he left an indelible mark on Canada's economic landscape, inspiring future generations of economists, politicians, and social activists.
Born in 1919
The charismatic leader who championed Canadian unity and implemented progressive policies, known for his iconic style and influential legacy in shaping modern Canada.
92 Years Old
The 20th Prime Minister of Canada, serving from 1993 to 2003, known for his leadership during the Quebec sovereignty movement and his role in shaping Canada's national unity. He implemented policies like the Clarity Act and the National Child Benefit.
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American professional ice hockey player who won two Stanley Cup championships and was a four-time NHL All-Star. Known for his rugged defensive play and physical presence on the ice.
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The 17th Prime Minister of Canada, serving from 1984 to 1985, is most known for his brief tenure and struggles to maintain party unity. He's also recognized for his prior role as Minister of Justice, where he introduced significant reforms.
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A Canadian pilot and politician who served as leader of the New Democratic Party and was a prominent advocate for social justice and human rights. He's known for his progressive policies and charismatic leadership.
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A charismatic leader who championed Quebec's independence and shaped the province's distinct identity through his passionate politics and journalism. He's revered for his role in Quebec's Quiet Revolution.
87 Years Old
The 18th Prime Minister of Canada, a skilled lawyer and politician, led the country from 1984 to 1993, known for negotiating the Canada-US Free Trade Agreement and introducing the Goods and Services Tax.
