Arthur Meighen

ModernPoliticianCanada1874 — 1960

Two brief terms as Canadian PM, great orator.

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Quick Facts

Born

1874

Died

1960

Country

Canada

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)50

Political (20%)34

Influence (20%)48

Legacy (20%)38

Leadership (15%)48

Strategy (15%)41

Total Score43.0

Arthur Meighen — Complete Timeline

1917 AD

Led the Unionist Government During World War IPolitical Action◆ Major

As a senior minister in Borden's Unionist government, Meighen played a key role in implementing conscription and the War Measures Act. His actions were controversial and deeply divided the country along linguistic lines.

Canadian PoliticsWorld War IConscription

Impact: nationaldestructive

1920 AD

Elected Prime Minister of CanadaPolitical Action◆ Major

Meighen became Prime Minister of Canada after the resignation of Sir Robert Borden. His first term lasted only until 1921, as his Conservative government was defeated in the general election by Mackenzie King's Liberals.

Canadian PoliticsElectionGovernment

Impact: national

1923 AD

Passed the Chinese Immigration Act of 1923Political Action◆ Major

As Prime Minister, Meighen's government passed the Chinese Immigration Act, which effectively banned all Chinese immigration to Canada. The act was a major piece of discriminatory legislation that remained in force until 1947.

Canadian PoliticsImmigrationDiscrimination

Impact: nationaldestructive

1926 AD

Second Term as Prime MinisterPolitical Action◆ Major

Meighen served a second brief term as Prime Minister after the King-Byng Affair, when Governor General Lord Byng refused Prime Minister Mackenzie King's request for a dissolution of parliament. Meighen's government lasted only three months before being defeated in the House of Commons.

Canadian PoliticsConstitutional CrisisGovernment

Impact: national