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Biography & Autobiography Political

Extraordinary Canadians: Tommy Douglas

by (author) Vincent Lam

Publisher
Penguin Group Canada
Initial publish date
Sep 2013
Category
Political, Post-Confederation (1867-), Social Activists
  • Paperback / softback

    ISBN
    9780143169178
    Publish Date
    Sep 2013
    List Price
    $19.95

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Description

Tommy Douglas was a Scottish-born prairie politician who believed in the enormous potential of co-operative action for the common good. Award-winning novelist and medical doctor Vincent Lam brings special insight to his portrait of Douglas, who grew up to become a champion boxer and a Baptist minister and then later exchanged the pulpit for a political platform. A powerful orator and tireless activist, he served for seventeen years as premier of Saskatchewan, where he introduced the universal health care program that would eventually be adopted across Canada. As the new leader of the New Democratic Party, he was a staunch advocate of programs aimed at improving the well-being of ordinary Canadians and a steadfast defender of civil liberties. By his example and unflagging efforts, Douglas made democratic socialism a part of mainstream Canadian political life.

About the author

Born in London, Ontario, Vincent Lam is an emergency physician who also works in international air evacuation and on expeditions. His non-fiction has been widely published in Canada. He and his wife live in Toronto.

Vincent Lam's profile page

Editorial Reviews

"These books are … opportunities to deepen the relationship between Canadians of the past and Canadians of the present. May this dialogue continue, so that today's biographers themselves will be the subject of the next wave of writers." —The Globe and Mail

"[The series is] entertaining, literary and informative." —The National Post

"The books would be a lovely addition to any library … they're accessible and ready to be read by all." —The Sunday Herald

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