Maurice Du Plessis Union Nationale Premier of Quebec from 1936-39 and 1944-59
Brought in Padlock Laws
Known as “Le Chef” (The boss)
Avoided English influence
Refused money from Federal Gov’t
Discouraged unions so working conditions were poor
He was ousted and Quebec came out of the “Great Darkness” in the 1960’s
Summary
Throughout Maurice DuPlessis' governing of Quebec many things went downhill. DuPlessis brought back in the Padlock laws, allowing the government to lock out anyone from their houses, intended to prevent the dissemination of communist propaganda. He avoided all and any influence from the English and refused money from the other Federal governments of Canada. The workers unions were discouraged so working conditions began to decrease. The time he was Premier, was referred to as 'The Great Darkness" and many Quebecois were thankful when he was driven out.