French Canadian Participation in the War of 1812: A Social Study of the Voltiguers Canadians

Authors

Martin F. Auger, University of Ottawa

Abstract

During the War of 1812, the participation of French Canadians in colonial militia units such as the Voltigeurs Canadiens was of great importance for the defence of Lower Canada. The colony’s lack of regular British toops combined with threats of American invasion rendered crucial to the mobilization of the local populace, most of which was of French descent. Although lacking the discipline and structure of British regular soldiers. Lower-Canadian militiamen were able to neutralize numerous American invasion attempts. Altogether, this impressive participation in the war effort helped redefine the military character of French Canadians. It also dissipated the British authorities’ fears that French Canadians were disloyal subjects. This study analyses the military organization of the Voltigeurs Canadiens to demonstrate the importance of French Canadian participation in the war, especially in Lower Canada, their military campaigns and how the Voltigeurs’ victories became the pride of all French Canada.

Recommended Citation

Auger, Martin F. "French Canadian Participation in the War of 1812: A Social Study of the Voltiguers Canadians." Canadian Military History 10, 3 (2001)