Bédard, Pierre Stanislas

(1762-1829)

   Educated at the Seminary of Quebec; studied law, and appointed advocate, 1790. Elected for Northumberland to the first Legislature of Lower Canada, 1792. In 1806, with a number of other French-Canadians in the Assembly, founded Le Canadien, to represent the views of the popular party. In 1810 the paper seized, and Bédard and his associates arrested on a charge of treasonable practices. Released the following year. In 1812 appointed judge of the District Court of Three Rivers. Retired in 1829 on account of ill health.

   Index: P Leader of French-Canadians in Lower Canada Assembly, 27; opposes property tax, 27; establishes Le Canadien, 28; considered by Sir James Craig a dangerous revolutionist, 28; sent to jail, 29; released and charges withdrawn, 29; moves resolution as to ministerial responsibility, 96. C Claims liberty of the press, 95; sent to jail, 95; released, 96; asks for ministerial responsibility, 96. Bk Arrested, 127; demands trial, 128; released, 145.

   Bib.: Parent, Pierre Bédard et Ses Deux Fils in Journal d'Instruction Publique, 1859; Christie, History of Lower Canada; De Gaspe, Memoires; Dionne, Pierre Bédard et Ses Fils; Dionne, Pierre Bédard et Son Temps (R. S. C., 1898).