Canadian Politics - Tommy Douglas

Thomas Douglas was a Scottish-born Canadian politician. He was the seventh premier of Saskatchewan and leader of the New Democratic Party from 1961 to 1971. In addition to being a politician, Douglas was also an author. In this article, you'll learn about his early life, political career, and speeches.

Thomas Douglas
Thomas Douglas, a Scottish peer and philanthropist, was a benefactor of immigrants in Canada. His generosity facilitated the establishment of the Red River Colony.

Early life
Tommy Douglas was born in Falkirk, Scotland. He was the son of Thomas Douglas and Annie Clement. In the spring of 1911, the Douglas family immigrated to Winnipeg. They settled in rented houses in the North End near the Vulcan Iron Works. Tommy attended school on Norquay Street and later the All Peoples' Mission.

Political career
Tommy Douglas' political career spanned the Great Depression. He was elected to the House of Commons as a member of the socialist CCF, which later became the New Democratic Party. His ability to make people laugh helped him become popular in politics. He often began his speeches with a joke. His most famous one was about Mouseland.

Speeches
The Tommy Douglas Foundation has released a new DVD containing eight speeches from the legendary leader. The collection includes everything from his early broadcasts as Premier of Saskatchewan to his 1983 speech at the NDP convention. The DVD also features an introduction by Tommy Douglas' grandson, a touching tribute by Bruno Gerussi, and an explanation of the Douglas-Coldwell Foundation.

Radio telecasts
As a teenager, Tommy Douglas experienced a number of harrowing experiences. He was witness to the brutal attacks of police and company thugs on working-class citizens during the Winnipeg general strike. He also witnessed several acts of violence inflicted on children and women.

Resignation
Tommy Douglas' resignation came as a shock to many Canadians. He had worked for years as the NDP's national leader, but after losing his seat in the newly redrawn riding of Burnaby-Seymour, he decided to delay retirement and seek a new seat in the province. He did win, and remained the party's leader until 1971.

Family
The family of Tommy Douglas traces its roots to Falkirk, Scotland. The Douglas family was a working-class one. Tommy's father was Tom, and his paternal grandfather, Mr. Douglas, was a prominent figure in the local community. The Douglas family settled in Winnipeg in the spring of 1911. They lived in rented houses in the North End, near the Vulcan Iron Works. Tommy attended Norquay Street School and the All Peoples' Mission.

Career
The career of Tommy Douglas is a well-known one in Canada. The former minister of health was one of Canada's most prominent politicians. He became a member of the Privy Council in 1984, and was invested into the Order of Canada in 1981. In the weeks before his death, he became ill with cancer. A CBC television program named him "The Greatest Canadian" based on a survey of Canadians. Douglas was instrumental in the creation of taxpayer-funded health care.