National Patriots' Day is a public holiday observed annually in Quebec. The day honors the memory of the Patriotes who fought for democracy, political reform, and national recognition during the Rebellions of 1837 – 1838 in Lower Canada (now Quebec).

Table of Contents

1. When is National Patriots' Day?
2. The History of National Patriots' Day?
3. What Do People Do on This Day?
4. The Rebellions of 1837 – 1838

When is National Patriots' Day?

National Patriots' Day is observed annually in Quebec on the Monday preceding May 25. This holiday coincides with Victoria Day in other Canadian provinces.

The following is the list of National Patriots' Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of National Patriots' Day? 

During the early 19th century, the Patriotes were a group of French-Canadian reformists who sought greater political rights and an end to economic and cultural inequities under British colonial rule.

The Patriotes demanded responsible government, fair representation for French-speaking residents, and protection of language and culture. When their demands were rejected, tensions escalated into the Rebellions of 1837 – 1838. The rebellions were eventually suppressed by British forces, with many Patriotes imprisoned, executed, or exiled.

Although the rebellion failed militarily, it sparked discussions about political reform. The Patriotes' struggle influenced the development of responsible government in Canada and reinforced the importance of democratic rights.

The May holiday in Canada was originally Victoria Day, honoring Queen Victoria's birthday. In Quebec, there was growing interest in replacing the celebration of a British monarch with one that reflected Quebec's unique history and identity.

In 2002, the Quebec government officially renamed the May holiday to National Patriots' Day (Journée nationale des patriotes). This change recognized the Patriotes' contributions to Quebec's history and their struggle for justice and democracy.

The day commemorates the courage and sacrifices of the Patriotes who fought for democratic reforms and the preservation of French-Canadian culture.

What Do People Do on This Day?

Public officials, organizations, and citizens gather to lay wreaths at monuments or memorials dedicated to the Patriotes. Community leaders, historians, and descendants of Patriotes give speeches and recite historical texts or letters to honor their legacy.

Museums and cultural centers host exhibits and displays about the Rebellions of 1837 – 1838. Artifacts, documents, and multimedia presentations provide insights into the lives and struggles of the Patriotes.

Schools organize lessons, storytelling sessions, or reenactments to teach students about the significance of the Patriotes and their contributions to democracy in Quebec.

Some communities organize parades featuring historical themes, music and traditional costumes.

Citizens use the day to reflect on the importance of democracy, justice, and activism. Discussions and events highlight the relevance of the Patriotes' ideals in contemporary political and cultural issues.

Many Quebecers use the long weekend to spend time outdoors, enjoying spring weather with friends and family.

The Rebellions of 1837 – 1838

The Rebellions of 1837–1838 in Lower Canada (now Quebec) were significant uprisings led by French-speaking Patriotes against British colonial rule. The rebellion aimed to address political inequities, economic challenges, and cultural tensions, ultimately shaping Quebec's history and its fight for political reform and cultural preservation.

The British – appointed elite group controlling governance, marginalized French-speaking residents. The Ninety-Two Resolutions (1834), issued by the reformist Parti Patriote, demanded responsible government, but these were rejected by the British government.

At the same time, agricultural crises, including crop failures, left many French-Canadian farmers in poverty. Economic policies favored British merchants and the English-speaking elite, exacerbating tensions.

After the British government rejected the Ninety-Two Resolutions, tensions escalated into open conflict. After several battles that were crushed by British forces in 1837, a second rebellion was launched in 1838.

This rebellion included the Declaration of Independence of Lower Canada, envisioning a democratic republic. However, British forces quickly suppressed the uprising. Hundreds of Patriotes were arrested, and leaders faced execution or exile. Properties of rebels were confiscated, and their communities faced widespread repression.

While the rebellion failed militarily, it brought attention to the need for democratic reforms, influencing Canada's eventual adoption of responsible government.

In 1841, the Upper Canada (Ontario) and Lower Canada (Quebec) were united into the Province of Canada aimed to dilute French-Canadian identity and reduce political tensions. The Patriotes' fight is seen as a pivotal chapter in Quebec's history, symbolizing the province's ongoing quest for cultural preservation and autonomy.