Arthur Cardin

Arthur Cardin, born on June twenty-eighth, eighteen seventy-nine, in Sorel, Quebec, was a prominent Canadian politician and lawyer. He began his political career after being elected to the House of Commons of Canada for the riding of Richelieu in the nineteen eleven federal election. A member of the Liberal Party, Cardin was re-elected in every election he contested, later representing Richelieu—Verchères starting in nineteen thirty-five.

Throughout his political journey, Cardin held several ministerial positions, including Minister of Marine and Fisheries, Minister of Marine, Minister of Public Works, and Minister of Transport. His political stance became particularly notable during the Second World War, when he called for a 'Yes' vote in the nineteen forty-two plebiscite to release the King government from its pledge against conscription. However, he resigned from the Cabinet in May nineteen forty-two over the introduction of the National Resources Mobilization Act, which allowed for conscription despite previous promises to seek a motion of confidence.

In April nineteen forty-two, Cardin announced his intention to lead a slate of candidates in the June nineteen forty-five federal election, primarily composed of former Liberals who had left the party due to conscription issues. This new party, known as the National Front, aimed to oppose the 'socialism' introduced by the Mackenzie King government and promote national unity based on equality between French and English Canadians. However, by May eighth, nineteen forty-five, Cardin abandoned his plans for the new party, citing the failure of more radical nationalists to unite behind his leadership.

Despite facing hostility from former Montreal mayor Camillien Houde, who blamed Cardin for his internment during the war, Cardin ran as an independent candidate and was re-elected to parliament. He passed away the following year in nineteen forty-six. In recognition of his contributions, Cardin Mountain, later renamed Mount Cardin, in British Columbia, stands in his honor.