Pierre Trudeau

Pierre Trudeau (1975)

15th Prime Minister of Canada (1968–1979, 1980–1984)

Joseph Philippe Pierre Yves Elliott Trudeau (October 18, 1919 – September 28, 2000) was a Canadian politician who served as the 15th Prime Minister of Canada from 1968 to 1979 and from 1980 to 1984. He was a member of the Liberal Party.

Early Life and Education

Trudeau was born in Montreal, Quebec, to a wealthy family. He attended the Collège Jean-de-Brébeuf, a prestigious Jesuit school, before studying law at the Université de Montréal. He later pursued graduate studies at Harvard University, the London School of Economics, and the Sciences Po in Paris.

Political Career

Trudeau entered politics in the 1960s, becoming a member of the Liberal Party of Canada. He was first elected to the House of Commons in 1965. In 1967, he was appointed Minister of Justice and Attorney General by Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson.

Prime Minister (1968–1979)

Trudeau became the leader of the Liberal Party in 1968 and subsequently the Prime Minister of Canada. His tenure was marked by significant social reforms, including the decriminalization of homosexuality and the implementation of the Official Languages Act, which made both English and French the official languages of Canada.

October Crisis

One of the most notable events during his first term was the October Crisis in 1970, when the Front de libération du Québec (FLQ) kidnapped British diplomat James Cross and Quebec Minister Pierre Laporte. Trudeau invoked the War Measures Act, leading to the arrest of hundreds of suspected FLQ members.

Prime Minister (1980–1984)

Trudeau returned to power in 1980 after a brief period out of office. His second term saw the patriation of the Constitution of Canada and the establishment of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms in 1982.

Personal Life

Trudeau married Margaret Trudeau in 1971, and they had three children: Justin Trudeau, who later became the 23rd Prime Minister of Canada, Alexandre Trudeau, and Michel Trudeau. The couple divorced in 1984. Trudeau also had a daughter, Sarah Coyne, with Canadian journalist Deborah Coyne.

Legacy

Trudeau is remembered for his charismatic personality and his significant contributions to Canadian society, including his efforts to promote bilingualism and multiculturalism. His legacy continues to influence Canadian politics and culture.

See Also

• Justin Trudeau
• Liberal Party of Canada
• Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
• October Crisis
• Official Languages Act (Canada)

References

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