Laurier wins the 1896 Canadian federal election and becomes Prime Minister

Background. Charles Tupper became Prime Minister in May 1896 following Mackenzie Bowell's resignation, triggered by a leadership crisis over the Manitoba Schools Question. Tupper introduced remedial legislation to reinstate funding for Catholic schools, but it was filibustered by McCarthyites and Liberals. Parliament was dissolved on April 24, 1896, setting the stage for the election where the schools dispute remained a key issue.

Campaign Issues. Laurier, who had lost the 1891 election, built party strength through personal following. In 1894, he promised to relax the National Policy and open markets. During the 1896 campaign, Tupper supported overriding provincial legislation for Catholic schools, while Laurier proposed an investigation followed by conciliation, famously calling his approach "sunny ways." The Liberals embraced a more conservative platform than usual.

Election Result. The election was held on June 23, 1896. Although the Conservatives won a plurality of the popular vote (48.2% vs 41.4%), the Liberals won the majority of seats, forming the next government. This victory was largely attributed to the controversy surrounding the Conservative government's handling of the Manitoba Schools Question.