W.L Mackenzie King – The Canadians

William Lyon Mackenzie King was one of Canada’s greatest prime ministers. He was a controversial and eccentric public figure who gave Canadians what they wanted – a prime minister that kept the country united. They wanted a leader who did not threaten them with rash adventures, and King’s caution was ready-made for soothing fears. They wanted a leader who cared about them, and Mackenzie King cared for his people, creating a society that gave a larger share of the good life to all of Canada’s citizens.

This was King’s greatest achievement. He believed everyone was entitled to a share of the country’s wealth. The Canada King left to his successors redressed the balance between rich and poor, introducing old age pension, unemployment insurance and family allowance benefits.

During World War II, King and his government mobilized the people and resources and produced a superb war effort. His achievement in the war stands unchallenged as the greatest effort of political statesmanship by any Canadian prime minister.