Robert Bond: The Greatest Newfoundlander

Robert Bond: The Greatest Newfoundlander

by Ted Rowe

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	898 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	108 pages

FREE

Robert Bond was a Canadian politician who served as the first Prime Minister of Newfoundland from 1909 to 1919. He was a key figure in the Newfoundland Confederation movement and is considered one of the greatest Newfoundlanders in history.

Early Life and Career

Robert Bond was born in St. John's, Newfoundland on December 28, 1857. His father, John Bond, was a successful merchant and his mother, Emily, was the daughter of a prominent Newfoundland politician. Bond attended school in St. John's and then went on to study law at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

After graduating from law school, Bond returned to Newfoundland and began practicing law in St. John's. He quickly became involved in politics and was elected to the Newfoundland House of Assembly in 1885. Bond served in the House of Assembly for 24 years and held a number of cabinet positions, including Attorney General and Minister of Finance.

Confederation Movement

In the late 19th century, Newfoundland was facing a number of economic challenges. The island's traditional industries, such as fishing and sealing, were in decline. Bond believed that the only way to save Newfoundland was to join Canada.

Bond was a leading figure in the Newfoundland Confederation movement. He argued that joining Canada would give Newfoundland access to a larger market and would help to attract investment to the island. Bond also believed that Confederation would give Newfoundland a stronger voice in international affairs.

In 1907, Bond led Newfoundland to a referendum on joining Canada. The referendum was narrowly defeated, but Bond continued to advocate for Confederation. In 1909, Bond was elected Prime Minister of Newfoundland and he immediately began negotiations with the Canadian government.

Prime Minister of Newfoundland

Bond's government negotiated a terms of union with Canada that were acceptable to both sides. The terms of union were approved by the Newfoundland legislature in 1913 and Newfoundland joined Canada on March 31, 1914.

Bond served as Newfoundland's first Prime Minister until 1919. During his time in office, he oversaw a period of economic growth and prosperity. Bond also introduced a number of important social reforms, such as free education and health care.

Later Life

After leaving office, Bond continued to be active in public life. He served as a Senator from Newfoundland from 1920 to 1929. Bond died in St. John's on March 7, 1940.

Legacy

Robert Bond is considered one of the greatest Newfoundlanders in history. He was a key figure in the Newfoundland Confederation movement and his leadership helped to bring Newfoundland into Canada. Bond was also a successful politician and his policies helped to improve the lives of Newfoundlanders.

Bond's legacy continues to live on today. He is remembered as a great Newfoundlander and his contributions to the province are still celebrated.

Robert Bond was a remarkable man who had a profound impact on the history of Newfoundland. He was a visionary leader who helped to bring Newfoundland into Canada and his legacy continues to inspire Newfoundlanders today.

Robert Bond: The Greatest Newfoundlander

by Ted Rowe

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	898 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	108 pages

FREE