Peter Paul Toney Babey facts for kids
Peter Paul Toney Babey was an important Mi'kmaw leader, also known as Peter Bobbeie. He was a chief from Nova Scotia who was active between 1849 and 1855. Born around 1800, he led a Mi'kmaw group living near Bear River.
Contents
Who Was Peter Paul Toney Babey?
Peter Paul Toney Babey was a respected chief of the Mi'kmaw people. He lived in Nova Scotia in the 1800s. As a chief, he was responsible for leading his community. He also worked to help his people when they faced challenges.
Helping His Community
In the mid-1840s, the Mi'kmaq people faced a difficult time. There was a severe shortage of food, known as a famine. Many people became sick because of this. The government of Nova Scotia, called the Nova Scotia House of Assembly, decided to help. They agreed to pay for the medical care of the Mi'kmaq people.
This help was very popular with the Mi'kmaq. However, it became quite expensive for the government. Peter Paul Toney Babey was known as a medicine man in his community. He had about 25 years of experience helping sick people. He believed he should be paid for his important work.
Asking for Support
In 1852, Chief Babey asked the Nova Scotia House of Assembly for payment. He sent a special request, called a petition. He wanted to be paid for the medical help he gave to his people. The assembly members talked about his request. They had a light-hearted discussion, but they did not give him any money at that time.
Chief Babey did not give up. In 1855, he sent another petition to the assembly. He again explained the health problems his people were facing. He asked for help with their medical needs. This time, the assembly agreed to give him some money. They gave him £4 for his services. This money helped him continue his important work.
What Happened Next?
After 1855, Peter Paul Toney Babey's name does not appear in official records anymore. We do not know what happened to him after this time. In 1857, the government changed its policy. They stopped paying for Mi'kmaw medical bills. They would only pay in very special situations. Chief Babey's efforts showed how important it was to care for his community.
