1776 in Canada
See also:
1775 in Canada,
other events of 1776,
1777 in Canada and the
list of 'years in Canada'.
Events 1776-77 - Capt. James Cook of England explores the Pacific Northwest. US Revolutionary war. United Empire Loyalists move to Upper Canada and settle (lumbering, farming starts). April 29 - Benjamin Franklin, Samuel Chase and Rev. Charles Carroll, a Jesuit, urge Canadians to send delegates to Congress, promising toleration. Franklin brings a printer and press, for a newspaper, to mould public opinion. Canadians regard Franklin as an enemy, and the priests remind Father Carroll that, unlike some of the Provinces, Britain tolerates the Romish Church. May 6 - As a British fleet is in sight, the Continental Army, before Quebec, weakened by disease, retires from a superior enemy, who await reinforcements, behind strong walls. June 8 - Attempting to surprise Three Rivers, General Thompson, with 200 of 1,800 Americans, is taken prisoner. June 16 - Arnold's force has retreated from Montreal. June 18 - General Burgoyne finds that the Continental Army has evacuated St. Johns. The eleventh Article of "Confederation and Perpetual Union" provides that: "Canada, according to this Confederation, and joining in the measures of the United States, shall be admitted into, and entitled to, all the advantages of this Union; but no other Colony shall be admitted to the same, unless such admission be agreed to by nine States." October 11 - The British are victorious on Lake Champlain. October 13 - On Lake Champlain, Arnold runs part of his fleet ashore, to avoid capture. The Jesuits' College, at Quebec, converted into barracks. The American colonies declare their independence. The Declaration of Independence is signed July 4, 1776. Common Sense by Thomas Paine (1737-1809) appears. Under Guy Carleton, Quebec withstands an American siege until the appearance of a British fleet (May 6). Carleton is later knighted.
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