Editing a Martyr (or a Madman)

Louis Riel, patriot or traitor? This has been a question that has been asked since he was hanged 125 years ago. The topic of pardoning Riel comes up from time to time and it being the 125th anniversary of his hanging, it's news again.

There's an interesting editorial piece in yesterday's Globe and Mail by the great-grand niece of Riel. She argues that Riel should not be pardoned and that his hanging and an subsequent talk of pardoning were all for political purposes. Her belief is that pardons imply "guilt, mercy, and forgiveness" and that they are usually for political purposes.

The most interesting aspect of this editorial is how the author discusses how Riel has become an "adaptable martyr - martyr, rebel, mystic, poet, statesman, madman, traitor". She talks about how the Riel legend has been reshaped throughout time and often for political purposes. In general terms, Riel has gone from a traitor to Canada all the way to someone who many believe was one of the fathers of Confederation.

His legend is in a constant state of edit in the minds of Canadians. Quebecois have always looked to him as a martyr and the embodiment of the death of a French Western Canada. In Ontario, many still believe him to be a traitor. In Manitoba, he has been accepted as the province's founding father and a Metis icon. Throughout Canada, people have made numerous attempts to clear his name.

When each new round of Canadian history books come out, Riel's legend often sees a thorough editing. From a "traitor" and a "madman" to a "father of Confederation", history and changing opinion can edit a legend permanently.