Canada’s political landscape has been shaped by pivotal elections and landmark moments throughout its history. From groundbreaking firsts to major shifts in leadership, here are some of the most significant events that have defined Canada’s federal elections over the years.

1. The First Federal Election (1867)

Canada’s very first federal election took place shortly after Confederation, between August 7 and September 20, 1867. The election resulted in Sir John A. Macdonald becoming Canada’s first Prime Minister.

2. Introduction of the Secret Ballot (1874)

Before 1874, voters declared their choices publicly. The 1874 Dominion Elections Act introduced the secret ballot, making voting private and more secure—one of the earliest reforms toward fair elections.

3. Women Win the Right to Vote (1918)

One of the most significant milestones came in 1918, when most Canadian women were granted the right to vote in federal elections, following years of activism by suffragists.

4. Agnes Macphail Elected (1921)

In 1921, Agnes Macphail became the first woman ever elected to Canada’s Parliament, marking a huge step forward in gender equality in Canadian politics.

5. Creation of Elections Canada (1920)

Elections Canada, the independent agency responsible for conducting federal elections, was officially established in 1920. Its mission: ensure fair, impartial elections across the country.

6. The First Televised Leaders’ Debate (1968)

In the 1968 election, Canadians tuned in for the first televised leaders’ debate. This broadcast dramatically changed how voters engaged with campaigns, bringing party leaders directly into people’s homes.

7. Voting Age Lowered to 18 (1970)

Previously, the voting age was 21. In 1970, the federal voting age was lowered to 18, expanding the electorate and giving younger Canadians a voice in shaping the country’s future.

8. Introduction of Advance Voting (1920)

Advance polling was introduced to allow voters who couldn’t make it on election day to still cast their ballots—a tradition that remains essential today, especially for increasing accessibility.

9. Historic Voter Turnout (1958)

The 1958 federal election holds the record for the highest voter turnout, with nearly 80% of eligible Canadians heading to the polls. It resulted in a sweeping majority win for the Progressive Conservative Party under John Diefenbaker.

10. Record-Long Campaign (2015)

In modern history, the 2015 federal election campaign was the longest, lasting 78 days. It ended with Justin Trudeau’s Liberal Party securing a majority government.

Final Thoughts:

These key moments highlight Canada’s journey toward a more inclusive, transparent, and democratic electoral system. As Canada gears up for another election, it’s important to remember the milestones that shaped the voting process today.