CANADA HISTORY - Govenors General

The Lord Tweedsmuir

John Buchan, 1st Baron Tweedsmuir, was a man of remarkable versatility and talent, known as a novelist, historian, lawyer, diplomat, and war correspondent. He was also the first professional writer to serve as Governor General of Canada, a position he held from 1935 until his untimely death in 1940. Buchan’s time in Canada was defined by his passion for literature, his dedication to fostering a national identity, and his deep interest in the Canadian North. His legacy includes the establishment of the Governor General’s Literary Awards, and his contributions to Canadian culture and diplomacy have left an indelible mark on the country.

Early Life and Literary Career
John Buchan was born on August 26, 1875, in Perth, Scotland, into a deeply religious family. His father, John Buchan Sr., was a Free Church of Scotland minister, and the family instilled in young John a sense of duty, morality, and service. He was an exceptional student, attending Glasgow University before earning a scholarship to Brasenose College, Oxford, where he excelled in classics and history.

Though Buchan’s academic achievements were impressive, he was primarily driven by his passion for writing. He published his first novel, Sir Quixote of the Moors, while still a student, and it set the stage for a long and successful literary career. Throughout his life, Buchan was a prolific writer, penning over 100 books, including novels, histories, biographies, and works of political thought. His most famous novel, The Thirty-Nine Steps (1915), is a classic of the thriller genre and was later adapted into a successful film by Alfred Hitchcock.

In addition to his fiction, Buchan was a respected historian and biographer, writing books on figures such as Sir Walter Scott, Oliver Cromwell, and Montrose. His ability to weave narrative with historical insight made him one of the most respected literary figures of his time.

Political and Diplomatic Career
Although writing was his first love, Buchan also pursued a career in law and politics. He was called to the bar in 1901, but his literary career quickly eclipsed his legal work. He entered the British Civil Service in 1901, working in South Africa after the Second Anglo-Boer War. During World War I, Buchan served as a war correspondent and later joined the War Propaganda Bureau, where his talents as a writer were put to use in the British war effort.

Buchan was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the Scottish Universities in 1927, a seat he held until his appointment as Governor General of Canada in 1935. His time in Parliament was marked by his moderate conservative views and his advocacy for imperial unity. It was this deep belief in the value of the British Empire and his experience in colonial affairs that led to his selection as Governor General of Canada.

Appointment as Governor General of Canada
In 1935, John Buchan was appointed Governor General of Canada by King George V, on the recommendation of Prime Minister R.B. Bennett. Upon his appointment, he was elevated to the peerage as Baron Tweedsmuir, taking the name from the Scottish estate where he had spent many happy childhood years.

Buchan’s appointment was well-received in Canada, where he was admired for his literary achievements and his international stature. As Governor General, he quickly immersed himself in Canadian life and traveled extensively across the country, reaching communities that no previous Governor General had visited. His 12,000-mile journey through Canada, including trips down the Mackenzie River to the Arctic and along the Pacific coast, was an unprecedented effort to connect with the more remote and isolated regions of the country.

Contributions to Canadian Literature and Culture
Buchan’s most lasting contribution to Canada was his tireless promotion of Canadian literature and culture. In 1936, he was made Honorary President of the Canadian Authors’ Association, and he used his influence to elevate Canadian writers and promote their works both within Canada and abroad. Buchan’s most notable legacy in this regard was the establishment of the Governor General’s Literary Awards in 1936, which recognized excellence in Canadian literature. These awards have since become one of the most prestigious literary honors in Canada and continue to play a vital role in encouraging and celebrating Canadian writing.

Buchan was a passionate advocate for Canadian nationalism and believed that literature was key to forging a national identity. He encouraged Canadians to write about their own experiences and history, helping to foster a unique cultural identity that was distinct from both Britain and the United States. He believed that Canada’s future lay in the development of its own voice and traditions, and his efforts helped to lay the foundation for the flourishing of Canadian literature in the decades that followed.

Diplomatic Achievements and Relations with the United States
In addition to his cultural contributions, Buchan played an important diplomatic role as Governor General. In 1937, he made history by becoming the first Canadian Governor General to make an official state visit to the United States. During his visit, Buchan was hosted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his wife Eleanor at the White House. He also addressed the U.S. Senate, emphasizing the importance of strong ties between Canada and the United States, especially in the face of global political instability as the world edged toward World War II.

Buchan’s visit was seen as a success, helping to strengthen the diplomatic relationship between the two countries. His ability to connect with American leaders and the American public highlighted his diplomatic skill and his understanding of Canada’s unique position as both a member of the British Empire and a neighbor to the United States.

The Historic 1939 Royal Tour
One of the highlights of Buchan’s tenure as Governor General was his involvement in the historic 1939 royal tour of Canada by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. This was the first time a reigning British monarch had visited Canada, and the tour was a major event, both politically and culturally. Buchan played a key role in organizing and hosting the royal couple during their visit, which was intended to strengthen ties between Canada and the Crown on the eve of World War II.

The royal tour was a resounding success, drawing huge crowds across the country and bolstering support for the British monarchy in Canada. The visit also reinforced Canada’s loyalty to Britain at a time when the international political landscape was becoming increasingly precarious.

Health Struggles and Death
Despite his successes as Governor General, Buchan’s health began to decline during his time in office. In August 1938, he returned to England for medical treatment, but his health issues persisted. He continued to carry out his duties as best he could, but in early 1940, he suffered a head injury after a fall and required surgery. On February 11, 1940, John Buchan, Baron Tweedsmuir, died in a Montreal hospital while undergoing surgery for his injuries.

Buchan’s death was a great loss to Canada, and he was given a state funeral in Ottawa. His ashes were returned to Scotland, where he was buried at his beloved Tweedsmuir estate.

Legacy
John Buchan’s legacy as Governor General of Canada is multifaceted. He is remembered not only for his contributions to Canadian literature and his establishment of the Governor General’s Literary Awards but also for his diplomatic achievements and his efforts to connect Canada’s diverse regions and peoples. His extensive travels, particularly to remote areas of the country, helped to bridge the gap between the urban centers and the more isolated communities, fostering a greater sense of national unity.

Buchan’s belief in the power of literature to shape national identity continues to resonate in Canada today. His advocacy for Canadian writers and his encouragement of a distinctly Canadian voice in literature helped to lay the groundwork for the country’s rich literary tradition. The Governor General’s Literary Awards, which he founded, remain one of the most prestigious honors for Canadian writers and serve as a testament to his enduring influence.

In addition to his cultural contributions, Buchan’s diplomatic efforts, particularly his historic visit to the United States, helped to strengthen Canada’s position on the international stage. His ability to navigate complex political relationships and his vision for Canada as a strong, independent nation within the British Empire left a lasting impact on the country’s political landscape.

John Buchan, Baron Tweedsmuir, was a man of remarkable talents who brought his passion for literature, history, and diplomacy to his role as Governor General of Canada. His tenure was marked by a deep engagement with Canadian society, a commitment to fostering a national literary identity, and a dedication to promoting Canadian unity. Buchan’s contributions to Canadian culture, particularly through the creation of the Governor General’s Literary Awards, continue to be felt today. His legacy as a writer, diplomat, and statesman ensures his place as one of Canada’s most influential and respected Governors General.