Alexander Mackenzie facts for kids

Alexander Mackenzie usually refers to two important historical figures:

• Alexander Mackenzie (politician) (1822–1892), who became the second Prime Minister of Canada.
• Sir Alexander Mackenzie (explorer) (1764–1820), a famous explorer and a business partner in the North West Company.

This article will tell you more about both of these amazing people.

Who Was Alexander Mackenzie the Politician?

Alexander Mackenzie was a key figure in early Canadian politics. He served as the second Prime Minister of Canada. He was known for his strong beliefs and honest approach to government.

Early Life and Moving to Canada

Alexander Mackenzie was born in Scotland in 1822. He grew up learning the trade of a stonemason. This meant he worked with stone to build things. In 1842, he decided to move to Canada. He settled in what is now Ontario. He continued his work as a stonemason and also became a contractor. This meant he managed building projects.

Starting a Political Career

Mackenzie became interested in politics early on. He was a strong supporter of the Liberal Party. This party believed in progress and fairness for all citizens. He was first elected to the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Canada in 1861. This was before Canada became its own country.

Becoming a Member of Parliament

When Canada became a country in 1867, Mackenzie was elected to the new House of Commons. He quickly became a leader within the Liberal Party. His honest nature and hard work made him popular. He was known for speaking his mind and fighting for what he believed was right.

Becoming Prime Minister of Canada

In 1873, a big political event happened. The first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, faced a scandal. Because of this, Macdonald's government fell. Alexander Mackenzie then became the new Prime Minister of Canada. He took office in November 1873.

Key Achievements as Prime Minister

As Prime Minister, Mackenzie focused on making the government more fair and efficient.

• He created the Supreme Court of Canada. This is the highest court in the country.
• He set up the Royal Military College of Canada. This school trains future military leaders.
• He introduced the secret ballot for elections. This meant people could vote privately without others knowing their choice. This helped make elections fairer.
• He also worked on improving the country's finances. He tried to reduce government spending.

Challenges and Legacy

Mackenzie faced tough economic times during his leadership. There was a worldwide economic slowdown. This made it hard for his government to achieve all its goals. He lost the election in 1878 to Sir John A. Macdonald. However, he continued to serve as a Member of Parliament until his death in 1892. Alexander Mackenzie is remembered as a leader who brought honesty and strong principles to Canadian politics.

Who Was Sir Alexander Mackenzie the Explorer?

Sir Alexander Mackenzie was a famous Scottish explorer. He made incredible journeys across North America. He was the first European to cross North America north of Mexico. He reached the Pacific Ocean in 1793.

Early Life and Fur Trade

Alexander Mackenzie was born in Scotland in 1764. When he was young, his family moved to New York. Later, they moved to Montreal, Canada. In Montreal, he joined the fur trade. This was a big business in Canada at the time. People traded furs, especially beaver pelts, for goods.

Joining the North West Company

In 1779, Mackenzie joined the North West Company. This was a major fur trading company. It competed with the Hudson's Bay Company. Mackenzie quickly showed he was a skilled trader and leader. He worked in remote areas, dealing with Indigenous peoples and managing trading posts.

Great Expeditions

Mackenzie became very interested in finding a route to the Pacific Ocean. This route would make fur trade easier. It would also help Britain claim more land.

Journey to the Arctic Ocean (1789)

In 1789, Mackenzie set out on his first major expedition. He followed a large river that he hoped would lead to the Pacific. Instead, the river flowed north. It led him to the Arctic Ocean. He named this river the Mackenzie River. It is one of the longest rivers in North America. This journey showed him that the Northwest Passage (a sea route through the Arctic) was not easy to find.

Journey to the Pacific Ocean (1793)

Mackenzie was determined to reach the Pacific. In 1793, he started another expedition. This time, he traveled west from Lake Athabasca. He used canoes and traveled over land. He faced many challenges, including rough terrain and difficult weather. He also met many different Indigenous groups. He learned a lot from them about the land and how to survive.

Reaching the Pacific

After a long and difficult journey, Mackenzie reached the Pacific Ocean. He arrived at what is now Bella Coola, British Columbia. He famously wrote on a rock: "Alexander Mackenzie, from Canada, by land, the twenty-second of July, one thousand seven hundred and ninety-three." This marked a huge achievement in exploration.

Legacy of Sir Alexander Mackenzie

Mackenzie's explorations were very important.

• He mapped vast areas of northern and western Canada.
• His journeys helped expand the fur trade.
• He showed that a land route across North America was possible.
• He was knighted by King George III in 1802 for his achievements. This means he was given the title "Sir."

Sir Alexander Mackenzie died in 1820. He is remembered as one of the greatest explorers of North America.

See Also

• List of Prime Ministers of Canada
• Exploration of the Canadian Arctic