Metis Revolt in Canada (1869-1885)

The correct answer is option 'A': 1869 and 1885. Let's delve into the details of the Metis revolt against the colonization of their land in Canada during this period.

1. Historical Context:
- In the mid-19th century, Canada was rapidly expanding westward, leading to increased colonization of Indigenous lands.
- The Dominion of Canada, under Prime Minister Sir John A. Macdonald, sought to extend its control and influence over the western territories, including the Red River Colony (present-day Manitoba) and the Northwest Territories.

2. The Red River Rebellion (1869-1870):
- The Red River Colony was primarily inhabited by the Metis, who were of mixed Indigenous and European ancestry.
- The Hudson's Bay Company, which held authority over the region, agreed to transfer the territory to Canada in 1869.
- However, the Metis felt their rights and land were being threatened by the Canadian government, as they were not consulted in the transfer.
- Under the leadership of Louis Riel, a prominent Metis leader, they formed a provisional government and staged the Red River Rebellion.
- The rebellion aimed to negotiate better terms for the Metis and ensure the protection of their land, culture, and rights.

3. The Provisional Government:
- The Metis established the provisional government, known as the "National Committee of the Metis," in December 1869.
- They drafted the "List of Rights" that demanded recognition of their rights, language, and land ownership.
- The provisional government effectively controlled the region until Canadian military forces arrived in August 1870.

4. The Manitoba Act and Resistance:
- In 1870, the Canadian government passed the Manitoba Act, which created the province of Manitoba and granted some rights to the Metis.
- However, tensions continued to rise as the government failed to fully address Metis concerns regarding land ownership and cultural preservation.
- Metis resistance persisted, leading to sporadic conflicts with Canadian forces over the following years.

5. The Northwest Resistance (1885):
- The Northwest Territories, which included present-day Saskatchewan and Alberta, witnessed another Metis-led uprising known as the Northwest Rebellion or Northwest Resistance.
- Dissatisfaction among the Metis and Indigenous peoples grew due to the Canadian government's mishandling of land treaties, settlement issues, and cultural repression.
- Under the leadership of Louis Riel once again, the Metis and their Indigenous allies took up arms against the Canadian government.
- The conflict was ultimately suppressed by Canadian forces, and Riel was captured, tried, and executed for treason.

In conclusion, the Metis revolted against the colonization of their land between 1869 and 1885. The initial Red River Rebellion in 1869-1870 and the subsequent Northwest Resistance in 1885 were pivotal events in their struggle for land rights, cultural preservation, and recognition within the expanding Dominion of Canada.