Alexander Mackenzie

2nd Prime Minister of Canada (1822-1892)

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Lived 1822–1892, aged 70Canada

Canada PoliticiansPolitician

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42 languages
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Era
1822–1892
Aged 70

Summary

Updated 2026-06-21

Canada's second prime minister came to power on the back of a corruption scandal, then presided over the creation of the Indian Act and the residential school system — institutions that would shape the country's relationship with Indigenous peoples for more than a century.

Biography

About

Born in Logierait, Scotland, in 1822, Mackenzie left school at 13 after his father died and apprenticed as a stonemason. He immigrated to Canada at 19, built a successful masonry business in Ontario, and turned his attention to Reform politics, editing the Lambton Shield before winning a seat in the Legislative Assembly in 1862. Elected to the new House of Commons in 1867, he became Liberal leader in mid-1873 and prime minister months later when John A. Macdonald resigned over the Pacific Scandal. His government won decisively in 1874 on the strength of his working-class origins and democratic…

Voice

In their own words

Sourced, dated quotes from Alexander Mackenzie

Alexander Mackenzie

said1877

...the Reformers of this country will remember...

— Speech 1877

Alexander Mackenzie

said14 Jul 1875

I have always held those political opinions which point to the universal brotherhood of man, no matter in what rank of life he may have taken his origin

— Speech to Working Men of Dundee July 14, 1875 - Speeches of Alexander Mackenzie during his recent visit...page 43

Alexander Mackenzie

said13 Jul 1875