A Canadian journalist and politician who championed social justice and workers' rights, known for his influential writings and leadership in the early 20th century labor movement.
Jacques Hbert, a renowned Canadian author, journalist, publisher, and senator, is best known for his extraordinary travels to over 130 countries, as well as his tireless efforts to promote world peace and youth development. Through his remarkable career, Hbert left an indelible mark on Canadian history, leaving behind a legacy of literary works, social contributions, and humanitarian endeavors.
Born on June 21, 1923, in Montreal, Quebec, Hbert began his academic journey at Saint Dunstan's University in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, at the tender age of 16. This early start would lay the foundation for his future endeavors in journalism and literature.
Hbert's journalistic career took off in 1951 when he joined the newspaper Le Devoir, where he worked until 1953. He later established two publishing companies, Éditions de l'Homme in 1958 and Éditions du Jour in 1961. These ventures allowed him to share his stories and ideas with a wider audience, cementing his reputation as a talented writer and publisher.
In 1954, Hbert covered the highly publicized Wilbert Coffin trial, which sparked his interest in the case. He went on to publish two books on the subject, Coffin était innocent (1958) and J'accuse les assassins de Coffin (1963). The latter book caused such controversy that the provincial government established a Commission of Inquiry into the case, highlighting Hbert's impact on the Canadian justice system.
Hbert's close friendship with Pierre Trudeau led to a historic trip to the People's Republic of China in 1960, during the Great Leap Forward. The two met with Mao Zedong and Zhou Enlai, recording their observations in the book Deux innocents en Chine rouge (1961). This adventure not only showcased Hbert's travel spirit but also his ability to forge meaningful connections with world leaders.
In 1971, Hbert founded Canada World Youth, an organization dedicated to empowering youth to develop their communities and promote world peace. This initiative solidified his commitment to creating positive change and fostering global understanding.
In 1983, Hbert was appointed to the Senate, representing the senatorial division of Wellington, Quebec, until his mandatory retirement in 1998. During his tenure, he held various roles, including Opposition Whip and Government Whip. In 1986, he embarked on a 21-day hunger strike to protest the cancellation of the Katimavik program for Canadian youth, which he had created in 1977.
Hbert's contributions to Canadian society and literature were recognized through several awards and honors. In 1978, he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada, and he received two honorary doctorates, one from Ryerson University.
Jacques Hbert's remarkable life serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication to promoting global understanding, social justice, and youth empowerment. His literary works, philanthropic efforts, and senatorial contributions have left an indelible mark on Canadian history, inspiring future generations to follow in his footsteps.
Jacques Hbert's extraordinary life, marked by adventure, humanitarianism, and literary pursuits, continues to inspire Canadians and people around the world.
Born in 1919
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A Canadian journalist and politician who served as the leader of the Liberal Party of Canada and was a prominent public intellectual, known for his writings on politics, history, and human rights.
