Overview

Louis J. Robichaud, the first elected Acadian premier of New Brunswick, transformed an inward-looking province with an ingrained aversion to change into a vibrant modern society now home to strong political, administrative, and educational institutions. Donald Savoie draws a portrait of adroit political leadership and of a man who, recognizing his province’s need for modernization, rose unwaveringly to the demands of office and ushered in profound and enduring change for Acadians and for all New Brunswickers. In a timely biography informed by a long friendship between fellow Acadians, Savoie contrasts the challenges of governing New Brunswick in the 1960s with those faced by governments and political leaders today to better understand the magnitude of Robichaud’s accomplishments over a ten-year span. Leading a province with a long history of intolerance towards minority groups, notably Acadians, Robichaud’s Liberal government confronted the dominant Anglo-Protestant political class and introduced reforms that included the Official Languages Act, broader access to education for francophones, the establishment of the Université de Moncton, and initiatives in regional and natural resource development, health care, and equitable public services across the province’s disparately funded urban and rural counties. Seismic changes at the time, these reforms are now woven into the social fabric of New Brunswick. Informative and lively, Louis J. Robichaud argues convincingly that while the premier’s achievements can be viewed as specific to his era, his political fortitude and vision are a model for politicians, legislators, and civil servants today.

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9780228027102

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Reviews

“In his brisk, engaging style, Savoie makes the case that Robichaud was unique in grasping the need for major social change at precisely the right moment, and the policies he initiated were essential to New Brunswick’s success.” – Jacques Poitras, author of Irving vs. Irving: Canada's Feuding Billionaires and the Stories They Won’t Tell “An incomparable volume written by a leading scholar who knew Louis J. Robichaud intimately.” – Gabriel Arsenault, author of The Higgs Years: Leading and Dividing New Brunswick “Louis J. Robichaud changed the course of New Brunswick history. With vision, courage, and a deep belief in fairness, he reshaped our province for the better. Donald Savoie’s biography captures the bold reforms and human spirit of a truly transformational leader.” – Shawn Graham, former premier of New Brunswick

Author Information

Donald J. Savoie holds the Clément-Cormier Research Chair in Economic Development at the Donald J. Savoie Institute. He is the author of numerous books including Speaking Truth to Canadians about Their Public Service.

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