Articles of Capitulation of Montreal facts for kids
The Articles of Capitulation of Montreal were a special agreement made between the French and British armies. This agreement happened when the city of Montreal surrendered to the British. It was signed on September 8, 1760, during the French and Indian War. This war was a big conflict between France and Britain in North America.
The agreement was signed by Pierre François de Rigaud, Marquis de Vaudreuil-Cavagnal, who was the Governor General of New France (the French lands in North America). He signed it with Major-General Jeffery Amherst, who represented the British. The signing took place at the British camp outside Montreal, after a two-month fight for the city.
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What Were the Articles of Capitulation?
The Articles of Capitulation were a list of 55 rules and requests. These rules were about protecting the people living in New France. This included the French settlers, the Canadians, the Acadians, and the Sauvages (which meant the Indigenous peoples).
Key Demands for the People
Governor de Vaudreuil asked that everyone in New France be given the same rights and protections as other British citizens. Here are some of the main things he asked for:
- Amnesty for Soldiers: Canadian militiamen who fought for the French would not be punished.
- Religious Freedom: People could continue to practice their Roman Catholic faith freely.
- Property Rights: French Canadians could keep their existing property.
- Rights for Leaders: The rights and special roles of the clergy (church leaders) and seigneurs (landowners) would continue.
- Indigenous Peoples' Rights: The rights that Indigenous peoples had under French rule would be guaranteed.
Most of these requests were agreed to by the British Army. However, some requests about the Acadians were not granted.
First Nations and the Treaty
Even though First Nations leaders did not help write the articles, the agreement still mentioned them. Article 40 of the treaty was important for them. It said that their independence and self-governance would be respected. It also promised to protect their land and their religion. The treaty also said they would not be punished for fighting alongside the French.
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