Louis St. Laurent

ModernPoliticianCanada1882 — 1973

Canadian prime minister who led post-war growth.

Compare:vs Napoleon vs Julius Caesar

Quick Facts

Born

1882

Died

1973

Country

Canada

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)38

Political (20%)80

Influence (20%)72

Legacy (20%)69

Leadership (15%)82

Strategy (15%)62

Total Score69.6

Louis St. Laurent — Complete Timeline

1948 AD

Became Prime Minister of CanadaPolitical Action◆ Major

St. Laurent succeeded Mackenzie King as Prime Minister of Canada, leading the Liberal Party. He inherited a strong economy and a government experienced in post-war reconstruction.

Government FormationSuccessionLiberalism

Impact: national

1949 AD

Oversaw Newfoundland's entry into ConfederationPolitical Action◆ Major

St. Laurent's government negotiated the entry of Newfoundland into Canada as the tenth province. This completed the territorial expansion of the Canadian federation.

ConfederationNewfoundlandExpansion

Impact: nationalconstructive

1954 AD

Approved construction of the St. Lawrence SeawayPolitical Action◆ Major

St. Laurent's government partnered with the United States to build the St. Lawrence Seaway, a major infrastructure project that opened the Great Lakes to ocean-going ships. The project boosted trade and economic growth.

InfrastructureTradeUS-Canada Relations

Impact: regionalconstructive

1957 AD

Lost 1957 election to John DiefenbakerPolitical Action◆ Major

St. Laurent's Liberal government was defeated in the federal election by John Diefenbaker's Progressive Conservatives. The loss ended 22 years of Liberal rule and marked a shift in Canadian politics.

ElectionDefeatTransition

Impact: national