Baldwin–La Fontaine

The first Robert Baldwin and Louis-Hippolyte La Fontaine administration, composed of reformers embodying the principle of responsible rule, governed during a period of decisive constitutional and political struggles. Called to power in 1842, La Fontaine and Baldwin undertook to see that the grievances common to the two Canadas were redressed. The following year, however, the new governor, Charles Theophilus Metcalfe, brought about their resignation. The second La Fontaine–Baldwin ministry was formed in March 1848 following a resounding victory. The new government, which came to be known as the “Great Ministry,” had a lengthy list of important reforms. Once formal responsible government was secure, Reform forces began to disintegrate, and in 1851 La Fontaine and Baldwin resigned.