Who is commonly referred to as the "Father of Confederation" in Canada?

The title "Father of Confederation" is most commonly associated with Sir John A. Macdonald due to his significant role in the creation of Canada as a unified nation in 1867. Macdonald was instrumental in the Confederation process, advocating for the unification of the British North American colonies into a single Dominion. He served as the first Prime Minister of Canada and was a key figure in negotiating and implementing the terms of Confederation, ensuring the political framework was established effectively.

His leadership and vision for a strong central government shaped the country's formation and helped to lay the foundation for modern Canada. This historical context underscores why he is recognized with this title, as his efforts directly contributed to the country's emergence and development. Other significant figures like Georges-Étienne Cartier also played vital roles, but Macdonald's leadership and foundational contributions have led to his enduring recognition as the principal architect of Canadian Confederation.