See Also

• Canadian Confederation

Introduction

The status of the prime minister has been described as primus inter pares: Latin for "first among equals." This concept defines not only the prime minister's relationship with Cabinet, but also, in a sense, his or her relationship with the public in our modern democratic society. Drawing on a wide variety of documents and artifacts, this site explores five main themes (see the menu at left) relating to Canada's prime ministers. The site examines our leaders' political careers as well as their private lives. It also sheds light on Canadians' perceptions of our prime ministers.

From Macdonald to Harper, our political leaders are twenty-two individuals who have made a difference, shaping Canada's identity, sometimes in profound ways.

Biographical information and speeches

• Go directly to information on each of our twenty-two prime ministers, as well as selected speeches, through the "Profiles" and "Speeches" links at left.

• There is a children's version of this site, intended for grades 4 to 6.