Louis-Hippolyte LaFontaine

Initially a moderate follower of Papineau, LaFontaine rejected armed insurrection in 1837, arguing that the French Canadian nation could secure its survival and rights through democratic parliamentary coalitions. Partnering with Robert Baldwin, he demonstrated bi-cultural political synergy.

Taking office as co-premier in 1848, LaFontaine famously delivered his first speech in French, defying British restrictions and permanently restoring French as an official language of parliamentary debate. Later serving as Chief Justice of the Court of Queen's Bench, he was created a British baronet.