How Did Pierre Trudeau React To The October Crisis

Ever since his ascension to office, Pierre Trudeau has steadied his position as an advocate of Canadian multiculturalism and a champion of all forms of individual rights. Trudeau had a vision for the future of Canada which would satisfy the ambitions of every ethnic group inhabiting the country. However, in October 1970 Trudeau’s resolve was tested during Canada’s most dire time outside of its participation in World Wars. When James Cross and Pierre Laporte, two significant political members, were kidnapped in succession by a group of radicals with steep demands, Trudeau was placed in the situation where he had to weigh his principles to determine the proper action. To preserve the integrity of Canadian democracy, Trudeau took the controversial
To justify the use of the War Measures Act, the federal government had to first assess the FLQs potential to violently overthrow the government of Quebec, and in this regard, Trudeau had every indication that the FLQ had the intention to do exactly this. The FLQ had made clear that they intended to rally and stir the support necessary to take their demands by force. “In the coming year Bourassa will have to face reality; 100,000 revolutionary workers, armed and organized.” reads a line from the FLQ manifesto, directed at the then Premier of Quebec, just one of many indications for their capability and willingness for violence. Between the kidnappings and the possibility of exponential escalation, it was in Trudeau’s best interest to settle the conflict as quickly as possible. Although the lives of two important politicians were at stake, it was decided conceding to terrorists was not in the ideals of Canada, and as such the only option left was a shakedown of Quebec to root out the FLQ perpetrators, an operation that is only aided using the War Measures