Few moments in Canadian history are as intriguing as the political battle between Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau and the “Gang of Eight” provincial premiers who opposed his plans to “patriate” Canada’s constitution from Britain. This volume revisits these constitutional negotiations, including the personalities, visions, and political struggles that shaped the resulting constitutional agreement. Offering fresh perspectives on the politics of this key moment in Canadian history, it focuses on the players behind the patriation process, including First Nations and feminist activists, who helped shape Canada’s new constitution. Patriation and Its Consequences also explores the long shadow of patriation, including the alienation of Quebec, the character of Canadian federalism, Indigenous constitutionalism and Aboriginal treaty rights, and the struggle to ensure gender equality rights in Canada.

Lois Harder is Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Alberta. She researches and teaches Canadian political economy, social policy, feminism and globalization.

Lois Harder's profile page

Steve Patten is Interim Dean of Arts and a professor in the department of political science at the University of Alberta.

Steve Patten's profile page