Red River Rebellion ends with Wolseley Expedition (1870)

The Red River Rebellion concluded in August 1870 when the Wolseley Expedition arrived at Fort Garry. Louis Riel, having established a provisional government, fled before the military force could engage him. This event marked the end of the immediate resistance phase, though civil government establishment followed later.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. The conflict arose from tensions over the transfer of Rupert's Land and surveying activities that threatened Métis river lots. Riel established a provisional government at the Red River Colony. The Canadian government dispatched a military expedition to assert authority and counter American expansionist sentiments in the region.

The Wolseley Expedition. Colonel Garnet Wolseley led a Canadian military expedition from Toronto in May 1870. The force was intended to confront Riel and the Métis, ensuring Canadian control over the territory. The expedition's arrival signaled the end of the provisional government's active resistance phase.

Flight and Aftermath. Riel withdrew peacefully from Fort Garry before the troops arrived in August 1870. The arrival of the expedition effectively ended the immediate rebellion. Civil government was established later, with Lieutenant Governor Archibald arriving in September 1870.

People involved

Sources

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