History
ONTARIO THROUGH THE YEARS
Explore Key Moments in Ontario’s History
July 1, 1867
Ontario Joins Canadian Confederation
Ontario became one of Canada’s four original provinces when Confederation took effect in 1867. This milestone marked a new chapter in the province’s political development, public institutions, and growing communities.
April 12, 1917
Women Gain the Right to Vote in Ontario
Women in Ontario gained the right to vote in provincial elections in 1917. The milestone reflected years of advocacy and marked a major step in the province’s democratic development.
August 1943
Ontario Elects Its First Women MPPs
Agnes Macphail and Margaret Rae Luckock became Ontario’s first elected women Members of Provincial Parliament. Their election expanded women’s representation in provincial government.
June 27, 1985
Ontario’s First Female Lieutenant Governor Takes Office
Lincoln Alexander became Ontario’s 24th Lieutenant Governor in 1985 and the first Black person to serve as a vice-regal representative in Canada. His appointment marked an important milestone in Ontario’s public and political history.
